Whether you’re taking classes on-campus or online, you will need to use digital and technological tools to succeed. Be sure you have the necessary technology available to you. Need a little help getting up to speed? Keep reading for information about digital literacy skills and learn how to receive support if needed.  

Reliable Internet Access/Wi-Fi 

Internet access is required for most processes at Bristol, including but not limited to: 

  • Accessing course materials. 
  • Submitting course work. 
  • Communication with professors. 
  • Class registration. 
  • Receiving financial aid awards. 

Wi-Fi on Campus

Wi-Fi is available on all campus locations. The Library Learning Commons provide a space for students to study and complete their work, as well as tutoring and writing support. Wi-Fi is also available from your vehicle while parked in lots 6 – 10, underneath the solar panels on the Fall River Campus. Click here for more detailed steps on accessing campus Wi-Fi. 

Mobile Hotspot

Students with an unlimited or high-use data plan from their cell phone carrier (Verizon, T-Mobile, etc.) can access the internet on their laptop via mobile hotspot.  

Note: Be aware of what your data plan includes, as overages may result in charges on your cell phone bill. Bristol is not responsible for any data overage charges from your cell carrier. 

Click here for hotspot setup instructions on iPhone. 

Click here for hotspot setup instructions on Android. 

Laptop Computer/Chromebook 

You may be reaching this page on your phone, but you’ll need a more powerful device, like a desktop or laptop computer, to get your classwork done – regardless of whether you’re taking in-person or online classes.  

Some degree and certificate programs may have more specific technology requirements. Speak with your major’s department chair or your advisor for more information. 

Borrow a Chromebook from the Library Learning Commons

The Library Learning Commons (LLC) allows students to borrow Chromebooks on a per-semester basis. Chromebooks are available to part-time and full-time students and can be picked up at any campus location.  Click here to read the full guidelines and instructions for borrowing a Chromebook. 

Book Advance

If you are awarded a book allowance as part of your Financial Aid package, you may use it to purchase technology such as a laptop or Chromebook. Read more information about Book Advance, including eligibility and dates, here.

Word Processing and Office Software

Every student at Bristol has free access to Microsoft 365. This includes Office, PowerPoint, Excel, oneDrive with 1TB of cloud storage, and more. To access Microsoft 365, login to myBristol and click "Microsoft 365 Apps" within Student Quick Links, or go directly to Microsoft 365 and login with your Bristol email.

Please note: student's cloud storage will be wiped after three semesters away from the college. All documents should be backed up elsewhere upon completion of program/leaving the college.

Students seeking an alternative to Microsoft products may want to try LibreOffice, a free and open-source office suite compatible with Microsoft files.

Free Digital Literacy Resources

You may be asking — what is digital literacy? Digital literacy is about gaining and enhancing the skills you need to successfully access information and communicate using digital technologies such as computers, mobile devices, the internet, social media and beyond.  

Below is a list of free digital literacy resources students can use to ensure they have the technical skills required to succeed at Bristol. These resources are meant to equip students with the basic level of digital literacy necessary to complete college coursework. 

  • Microsoft Digital Literacy – provides a free curriculum covering essential computer skills and digital literacy, designed for beginners. 
  • DigitalLearn.org – managed by the Public Library Association, offers interactive, video-based tutorials covering a range of basic digital skills. 
  • GCF LearnFree.org – offers tutorials on technology, reading, math, and more, making it a comprehensive resource for adult learners.