Overview
Reliable Wi-Fi is essential for supporting activities like live polling with iClicker, collaboration through tools such as Padlet, media-rich instruction using Panopto and PlayPosit, and in-class online exams on Canvas. UT San Antonio’s AirRowdy network is designed to support high-density classroom use; however, a large number of simultaneous connections can impact performance. The following best practices are intended to minimize disruptions, maintain stable connections, and improve the overall classroom experience for students. Faculty can further support this by including guidance in syllabi, Canvas course sites, or exam instructions, which helps set clear expectations and contributes to a smoother learning environment for everyone.
Best Practices for Student Success
Prepare your device
- Fully charge devices before arriving to class
- Install system and application updates ahead of time
- Pause automatic updates and cloud syncing (Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud, etc.)
Limit extra connections
- Use only one device for when possible, especially for exams
- Place unused devices in airplane mode to reduce network congestion
Connect to the right network
- Turn Wi‑Fi off and back on just before starting class, especially before exams, to reconnect to the nearest access point
- Select AirRowdy from the available Wi-Fi networks (not AirRowdy_Guest)
- Sign in using your myUTSA ID (abc123) and passphrase
- If you have trouble connecting
- Open Wi-Fi settings and forget the AirRowdy network
- Reconnect to AirRowdy and re-enter your myUTSA ID and passphrase when prompted
Stay Connected
- Close unnecessary apps and browser tabs
- Avoid streaming music, videos, or large downloads unless required for class-related activities
- During exams, use Google Chrome on a laptop (not a tablet or phone) and clear the cache before starting
- If Wi-Fi seems slow toggle Wi-Fi off and back on instead of repeatedly reconnecting, which can cause additional delays
- Confirm you are still connected to AirRowdy (not AirRowdy_Guest)
- Open a browser or required application to verify connectivity
Reduce Network Strain During Exams
- Avoid having all students click Start at the same time, which can overwhelm local access points
- Stagger start times when possible, such as 50 students every 5 to 10 minutes
Support
- Exam support: Contact Academic Innovation, at [email protected], 210-458-4520, or book a consultation with our TLDT experts.
- Wi‑Fi support: Contact Tech Café at [email protected] or 210-458-5555. Be ready to share: Device type (laptop, tablet, etc.), classroom location, and a brief description of the issue.