Troubleshooting Basics

Here are a few things you can do to help until we can get there. Technical issues are frustrating, but please know that our highest priority every day is to keep you teaching.

1. Don't Panic. Relax. Many computer problems appear more serious than they really are. Yes, it may look like your hard drive has crashed and all your data from the last three years is irretrievable. But there are a host of problems that keep you from reaching your data that can be fixed--sometimes in a matter of minutes.

2. Check Your Connections. With so much activity in a classroom, there are many issues that are as simple as plugging in the power cord or connecting the SmartBoard. Try to familiarize yourself with where connections are made prior to issues arising.

3. Try Restarting. Whether your iMac, iPad, or iPhone is causing the trouble, many problems are overcome by simply restarting your devices. Start with just logging off and then back in, followed by shutting down the device for a minute or so and powering it back up.

4. Think about what changed recently on your computer. Try to pinpoint when the trouble first started. Did the problem coincide with any recent changes? Can you reverse them?

   • Have you changed any of your system settings?

   • Has any new software been installed or updated?

   • Have any new parts been put into your computer?

   • Have any peripherals been added or removed recently (such as a printer or external hard drive)?

   • Has anyone else been using your computer recently? How did he or she use it?