Question: Do you have classes that are geared toward researchers? We have very specific needs for grant submission and data collection, etc and would like to get more assistance on this.

Answer: Even though we teach several classes which can assist researchers in their computer needs, none have really been targeted to researchers, so we are establishing a new “IT for Researchers User Group” which will address researcher’s needs. Apparently there is great interest in this, as our first meeting is scheduled for 3/24/09 from 2-3:30 in Eppley Science Auditorium room 3010, and we have had an overwhelming response. (We even had to find a larger room). The first few minutes of the meeting will discuss the goals of the group and then spend the remainder of the time discussing converting documents to PDFs for grant submission. Several research support staff will share their “tricks of the trade” and how they are able to successfully submit grants. We anticipate that the Group will have two tiers of members – students/researchers and research administrative support staff. Other topics to be addressed will be illustrations and graphics, data collection, scientific posters, presentations, etc.

Question: I haven’t seen your Bits, Byte and Bells class schedule for January/February? Where can I find it?

Answer: The reason why our schedule isn’t available is because the Campus Training Center building is slated to be demolished in early 2009 and the training room has been moved to the 8th floor of the UNMC Library, room 8011, which was previously the Library Computing Cluster. The Cluster has moved to room 8012. While equipment is being relocated and set up, classes are on hold. However, training presentations in departments can be scheduled through Kim Laursen at 559-5674.  The new schedule should be available in early to mid-January at http://info.unmc.edu/helpdesk/16.htm