Summer is the time to implement technology updates, and here are the ones we know are happening over the summer. As appropriate, we’ll send updates with additional updates and information.
Here’s what you need to know, now.
Operating System Updates: Windows10 > Windows11
Over the summer, the Windows computers in the classrooms and centrally managed conference rooms will be updated to Windows 11. The key changes to be aware of are:
New position of login/logout button. Signout works the same way (click name and "signout"), but positioning and appearance are different.
Repositioned Start Menu and Task Bar. The Start Menu and Taskbar have moved to the center.
Refreshed Start Menu Appearance. Tiles on the Start Menu look different.
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Upcoming Transition to PennKey Logins for Windows PCs
The School is beginning an initiative to transition all Windows PCs to use PennKey credentials for login, aligning with University-wide practices. These transitions will occur in phases over the coming months. Look out for upcoming communication with further details.
Research & Analytics News:
The Research IT team can help with your research needs over the summer, including:
Data purchasing help: We can help you purchase new data, review data use agreements, and onboard your data. Reach out with any questions!
Office Hours: Office Hours will be paused through August, and will resume in the fall in person, in your department. Meanwhile, we’ll continue to field your tough research questions all summer.
WRDS CRSP Users: The structure of the CRSP database on WRDS has changed. The old structure will be updated with 2024 end-of-year data, but going forward only the new structure will contain current data. Please see our Changes to CRSP Data article for details, an FAQ, and sample code for accessing the new structure.
Research Programming Resources: We also offer enhanced research programming, statistical programming, and data engineering resources, using a wide variety of tools and techniques. Reach out to us to find out how we can help!
Generative AI tools and techniques: We provide expertise in integrating AI solutions into research projects, and offer guidance on best practices for using generative AI effectively. Whether you need help with data preprocessing, testing models for biases and fairness, or leveraging AI systems, the team is here to support your research endeavors.
Have questions for the team? Reach out to About Research IT to get the conversation started.
Courseware
Files tab redesign: On the weekend of July 19-20, 2025, a redesign to the Files tab of Canvas course sites is anticipated. Please see our All About Files and Folders article for more information.
Upcoming Pilots: In the 2025-2026 academic year, the Courseware Team expects to pilot two tools that integrate with Canvas.
Wooclap, a polling tool being evaluated as a possible Poll Everywhere replacement
Peerceptiv, a peer feedback and review tool being evaluated as a replacement for Feedback Fruits.
To learn more about either pilot, please reach out to the Courseware Team.
Poll Everywhere Reminder: Classroom PCs no longer have the add-on installed. Use a web browser to access Poll Everywhere on classroom PCs to manage and run polls.
If you have any questions or want to discuss your technology needs for the fall, please reach out to your Wharton Computing Team.