Classroom Technology Toolkit

NIU has a multitude of classrooms, conference rooms, labs and study spaces in more than 70 buildings on campus. The technologies in these spaces allow faculty to utilize lecture-capture and two-way collaboration between faculty/instructor and in-person/remote students. This toolkit provides information on how to effectively capture and stream your courses using the technologies available. 

Training and Support

Information on training and support available about classroom technology.

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Streaming Options

Comparison of methods for streaming or capturing a class session.  

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Quick Guides

Quick reference materials for streaming and using classroom technology.

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Classrooms FAQ

Who should I contact if something isn't working in my classroom? Updated

Technical support for classrooms on campus is shared between the Division of IT Classroom Media and Tech team and college distributed IT. For most classrooms, the best route is to submit an incident report to DoIT Classroom Media and Tech. 

For the quickest response:

  1. Log in at it.niu.edu
  2. Click the Get Help button
  3. Click the Submit a Form button
  4. In the Desktop and Device Support area, click the Classroom Support link and complete the form

The ticket will be routed to the appropriate support team. Note that while the teams will do their best to respond quickly, they may not be able to do so during your class session.

What should I do if a projector won't turn on?

Most classrooms use a controller, such as a touch-screen or button box, to power on the projector. If that isn't working or the room doesn't have one, check for a Podium Control icon on the computer desktop and try to power on the system from there. 

You can also try the projector remote control. Look for the brand on the projector (if possible) to find the appropriate remote control. 

I have a DVD I would like to play for my students, but there isn't a DVD player in the room. What should I do? New

First, check the instructor station computer for a DVD or Blu-ray drive. If the computer has a DVD or Blu-ray drive, you can play the video from the PC. When you insert the disc and close the drive, the computer will likely automatically launch the player. 

If the computer does not have a built-in drive, you can use an external DVD drive that connects via USB. Founders Memorial Library has DVD drives available that you can check out for 3 days with your NIU OneCard. The drive includes the USB cable that you will need to connect it to the instructor computer or to your laptop. 

Teaching Support

CITL staff are available to answer your teaching questions. Give us a call at 815-753-0595 or email citl@niu.edu for assistance. You can also schedule an appointment with one of our staff.

View CITL upcoming events to view available upcoming workshops offered or to register.

Contact Us

Center for Innovative
Teaching and Learning

Phone: 815-753-0595
Email: citl@niu.edu