Learning resources
Musselman Library
From the historic building to the resources available online, the Musselman Library supports the information and research needs of Bluffton students. The library is a place that encourages exploration and learning through access to online information and research materials in close proximity to the print library collections needed for assignments and research. The library Reading Room is a popular study location with wireless access and windows overlooking a wooded setting.
The library offers a gateway to the many resources and services of the library, including the library catalog, research databases, electronic books and journals, and digital media resources. Through membership in the OPAL (Ohio Private Academic Libraries) and OhioLINK consortia, Bluffton students have easy access to materials held in academic and public libraries throughout the state. Interlibrary loan extends the research options to resources from libraries across the nation and around the world.
The Archives and Special Collections, including historical collections reflecting the Anabaptist-Mennonite affiliation of Bluffton University, are important to the Bluffton experience and offer unique opportunities for research. The library also houses the Curriculum Resource Center and is the location for the Writing Center.
Beginning with an introduction to the library during the first year, students at Bluffton
have many opportunities to learn more about all that the library offers in resources
and services. Whether through classroom instruction or day-by-day encounters with
individuals and small groups, librarians and staff at the Musselman Library work with
students in developing research skills for locating and evaluating information.
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Technology resources
Bluffton is among the nation's high tech colleges with over 1,600 data ports, 175 public access computers and extensive use of information technology across the curriculum. Bluffton students, faculty and staff enjoy access to the World Wide Web and a wealth of digital library resources in classrooms, residence halls, library and shared computing centers.
Students register and access course materials online. Further, all residential students have a high speed Internet connection in their room to ensure 24-hour access.
Wireless "hot spots" are available in Marbeck Center, Musselman Library, Centennial Hall and all residence halls.
Centennial Hall, our academic center, features a variety of high tech classrooms, and the Technology Center provides a place to develop multimedia projects and access the latest digital tools including video editing. Marbeck Center and Musselman Library also offer computing and printing resources.
The Technology Center staff provides assistance with diverse computing applications
and digital media during all hours of operation. Technology related academic programs
include information technology and graphic design. Our goal is for all Bluffton students
to graduate with the technology skills needed for professional success and lifetime
learning.
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Because we recognize the importance of common software tools for a successful academic program, Bluffton has extended its licensing of MS Office to all currently enrolled students for use on their personal computers. Preferred installation of this software is for students to buy an Office CD from the bookstore for a nominal charge, and thus be able to reinstall the Office media if needed. Microsoft Security Essentials is our recommendation for anti-virus software. The Help Desk serves as the point-of-contact for all support and troubleshooting during regular business hours. Please contact the Help Desk (helpdesk@bluffton.edu or ext. 3600) if you have questions or need support.
Learning Resource Center
The Learning Resource Center provides academic and personal support in the forms of study groups, tutoring, workshops, individual consultations and follow-up. The center works with students on developing and/or refreshing skills in areas such as time management, note taking, reading, mathematics, test taking and stress management. It is located on the second floor of College Hall.
The director of the center also serves as the counselor for disability services.
Disability services
Bluffton University does not discriminate against qualified students with disabilities. The mission of disability services at Bluffton University is to ensure that qualified students with disabilities are provided access to all programs in order to maximize their educational potential, develop independence to the fullest extent possible and perform at a level limited only by their abilities, not their disabilities. Any qualified student with disabilities who seeks modifications in accordance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, such as academic adjustments or auxiliary aids or services, must submit a request to the university's counselor for disability services. The counselor for disability services will work with the student and other persons as necessary to determine the appropriate modifications. The office of the Section 504 Coordinator/counselor for disability services is located in the Learning Resource Center and can be reached at extension 3215.
Tutoring
Many departments provide tutoring services free of charge for both departmental and general education courses. Students needing tutoring services should ask their instructors about tutoring services provided for their courses. Students also can consult with the appropriate department chair or the Learning Resource Center.
Writing Center
The Writing Center provides free, individualized tutoring in college writing for all registered Bluffton University students. Upper-class writing tutors provide help in generating and developing ideas, organizing information and correcting grammatical errors. Students can receive help on assignments from any course and on application letters for jobs or graduate and professional schools. ESL students are also encouraged to use this resource. The writing center is located at the entrance of Musselman Library.
June 2012