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Amazon AppStream is a technology that allows users to use software directly in their web browser without installing it on their computer. It should work with nearly any computer and web browser, as long as the student has a robust internet connection. Currently, Christopher Newport University is providing Microsoft Access and Microsoft Excel in an AppStream environment for students without Windows PCs. Students using Macs may be able to use the Macintosh version of Excel for their work. As this uses fewer Christopher Newport University resources and has a better experience for students, this is recommended if possible.
Adding AppStream to your Course
Once you’ve confirmed that resources are available, adding AppStream to your course is easy. Click the plus sign at the top or bottom of your course menu and select Tool Link.
Give the link a name that your students will understand, and choose AWS AppStream -- MS Access/Excel from the Type dropdown menu. Make sure that Available to Users is checked or your students will not be able to see the link. Click Submit to add the link to the menu.
any section of your Course feed, and select "Content Market".
Select the module labeled "AWS Appstream–MS Access/Excel" by clicking the plus sign in the bottom right corner. This will add it into the location you selected in your Content feed. (Note: The link will default to being added to the course in a Hidden state. You will need to make it visible in order for students to see and access the link.)
Accessing AppStream
To use AppStream, click the provided link created in the course menuyour course feed using the above instructions.
After a brief wait, you’ll be taken to the app selection screen. Select the app that you need to use.
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Once the wait is over, your application will launch.
Setting up Google Drive -- REQUIRED
Any files that you save on AppStream will be deleted when you log out. However, AppStream can save files to your CNU Google Drive, which will allow you to keep your work across sessions, and access the files from any computer. The first time you use AppStream, you’ll need to link it to your Google Drive account.
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You’ll then have to authorize AppStream to access your account.
Using AppStream
On the whole, you’ll be able to use AppStream just like you were sitting in front of a computer. There are a few minor changes to how you use it.
Saving Files
You’ll need to make sure to save your work in your linked Google Drive account. To do so, you’ll need to choose a save location.
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If you get a “Not Ready” error, just wait a few seconds and try again. Your entire Google Drive may also take some time to load; this is normal. You can then use your Google Drive just as if it were part of the computer you’re on.
Copy/Pasting
Copy and Paste works differently if you’re copying from or pasting to your computer. To copy from AppStream, copy the text in your application, then click the Copy/Paste button at the top of the screen.
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When you do, the text will be ready for you to use the Paste command in the session.
Printing
Printing is a two-step process. You’ll print from your app like normal, but select DCV Printer in the print options.
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Your browser will then open a PDF of the document that you can print to your printer.
Leaving the Session
When you’re done working verify that all of your work is saved to your Google Drive. Once you leave your session, any work saved directly on that session WILL BE LOST.
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You’ll be taken to a feedback form. Please fill that form out to give ITS an idea of how well this is working.
Troubleshooting
Here are a couple of troubleshooting steps for common issues:
My App Closed
If your app got closed by mistake, you’ll see a blank screen. Simply select your app from the Apps menu at the top left to get it back.
My Browser Tab Closed
If you close your browser tab/window, you’ll lose access to your session. As long as you click the Scholar link within five minutes, you’ll be able to get back to your existing session.
My Google Drive is Slow/I get a “Not Ready” Error
If you get a “Not Ready” error when accessing your Google Drive, just wait a few seconds and try again. Your entire Google Drive may also take some time to load at the beginning of a session; this is normal.
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