Change computers with Citrix
Concordia University students have been introduced to an innovative method of working this semester as Citrix made its way into the university’s computer labs and several newly equipped classrooms.
Loni Cornax, Assistant Director, User Services, IITS, said not only is the new Citrix environment easier to maintain, but software is no longer installed locally on a PC.
“All maintenance is conducted on centralized servers, allowing for more timely service, including repair,” she said.
Citrix allows for the use of server-based applications on the web. Students simply log on with their netname and password from any thin client (monitor) in the computer labs. They can save their work to the My Documents folder that appears on the desktop. Citrix provides 8 MB of disk space, but users also have the option of saving their files locally (i.e., to a USB key).
All Citrix labs offer a Windows XP environment with an updated open-source software suite (Star Office) via the Citrix server, as well a regular repertory of “freeware.” This represents significant savings, as the university is no longer paying for a Microsoft Office license on every Citrix computer station.
Director of Instructional and Information Technology Services Andrew McAusland said IITS plans to experiment with additional software as it becomes available. Additionally, course-specific software will automatically be set up on the student’s desktop in the future.
The new Citrix software server has been successfully running in H-980 since last September. Moodle, the university’s web-based courseware system, is now being used to provide the services traditionally supplied through the group folders in the PC labs. Access to shared files and submit boxes is therefore available over the web through Moodle.
Craig Buchanan, Manager, Academic Facilities/Services, IITS, noted that more and more students are taking advantage of the flexibility of these new services. “It is also easier for them to change locations, even between campuses,” Buchanan said.
McAusland said that plans are already underway to expand Citrix access so that students can access their files from any desktop in the world. In early 2007, a test group of about 250 graduate students will be offered a free subscription to the service that will allow them access their files anytime and anywhere.
“This project will provide much needed flexibility for all users,” McAusland said. He noted that access to data files from remote locations will mean students may work from any web-enabled computer, save their files locally, and continue their work from another machine.
“All the student is required to do is simply load the browser, log-in and run the application.”
Future plans also include incorporating a SIP (session initiation protocol) phone onto the desktop.
Although access to the Citrix environment is free of charge this academic year, access to server-based applications on the web will be available by subscription in upcoming years. Non-subscribers will still have access to the labs.
To follow the progress of these projects, visit iits.concordia.ca