iTunes U Frequently Asked Questions
What is iTunes U?
iTunes U offers educational multimedia content from hundreds of colleges and universities across the country. It can be accessed through the iTunes Store. If you want to access content from iTunes U, you must first download iTunes to your computer. The University of Chicago launched its site on iTunes U in October 2008.
How do I download iTunes?
iTunes is available free of charge from Apple. Visit http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/ and follow the instructions for your type of computer. For more information on iTunes, visit http://www.apple.com/itunes/overview/
What are the system requirements to run iTunes?
With some exceptions, Apple’s iTunes software will run on most computers purchased within the last five years and Mac OS X and Windows XP/Vista operating systems released in the last three years. Before installing iTunes, one should ensure that the operating system is up-to-date with the latest patches, security fixes and service packs. To update a Macintosh, run “Software Update,” and on a Windows system run “Windows Update.” Specific technical requirements can be found on the iTunes website. Visit http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/ for more information.
How do I access iTunes U from the iTunes Store?
Once you have successfully downloaded iTunes to your computer, open iTunes and go to the iTunes Store. iTunes U is a link within the menu at the top left of the page. From there you can go to “Find Education Providers” and search for the University of Chicago.
How do I watch a video or listen to audio on iTunes?
Simply browse or search for the content you are interested in within the iTunes Store. Then click on the button to download the content to your computer. Once the content is in your iTunes library, you may click on it to watch or listen to it on your computer. If you have an iPod or iPhone and want to watch content while away from your desk, you may sync the device to your computer. To set up synchronization with your device, consult the “Help” menu in iTunes. Although much of the content on iTunes is available for purchase, content in iTunes U, including University of Chicago content, is available for free.
Do I need an iPod to listen to iTunes content?
No, you can view or listen to iTunes content directly on your computer.
Can I use other portable media players to play University of Chicago iTunes U content?
Yes. University content delivered through iTunes U does not use DRM technology, so it can be played on any device.
What kind of content can I find on the University of Chicago iTunes U site?
The University of Chicago offers a range of programs on its iTunes U site, including lectures, performances, faculty interviews, stories about research and campus life, and student productions. We are not offering course content.
Will I have to pay to download University of Chicago content?
No, University of Chicago content on iTunes U is available free of charge.
What is a podcast?
To quote from Wikipedia:
A podcast is a series of audio or video digital-media files which is distributed over the Internet by syndicated download, through Web feeds, to portable media players and personal computers. Though the same content may also be made available by direct download or streaming, a podcast is distinguished from other digital-media formats by its ability to be syndicated, subscribed to, and downloaded automatically when new content is added.
The name originated from the practice of content being made available in both a syndicated form and public manner (broadcast) and then commonly viewed or listened to on an Apple iPod.
Who can submit content to the University of Chicago iTunes site?
Any University of Chicago faculty member, staff member, or student may submit content to the University’s iTunes U site. Submitted content is reviewed for adherence with technical requirements, copyright and quality standards before being posted. Other individuals who wish to submit content that is related to the University may contact us for more information.
Can University of Chicago students contribute content?
Yes. Content produced by students is posted in a section labeled “Student Productions.”
What type of content will be accepted?
Appropriate content may describe University-related activities; interview University faculty, staff, students, or alumni; or feature speakers, programs or performances sponsored by the University or held on campus. Submitted content is reviewed for adherence with technical requirements, copyright and quality standards before being posted. Individuals who have questions about the suitability of their content may contact us for more information.
Can faculty members contribute course content?
Since the University’s iTunes U site is relatively new, we are not yet actively seeking course content. Faculty members who wish to share audio and video of their course content should follow the University guidelines posted in the Faculty Handbook. In addition, because iTunes U is a public content distribution platform course material that would normally fall under fair use within the classroom may not be posted on iTunes U. Only original and/or copyright-cleared content for public distribution may be posted on iTunes U.
What are the technical requirements for submitted content?
iTunes U supports the distribution of compressed files including AAC (.m4a) and MP3 (.mp3) audio formats and MPEG-4 video (.mp4, .m4v, .mov). If you are interested in creating a podcast for iTunes U, contact us for more information on how to create content, compress the files, and include appropropriate descriptive metadata about your program. How do you handle copyright issues for iTunes U content?
All content produced by the University of Chicago is protected by copyright from reproduction without permission. If you are submitting content that may contain material protected by copyright, you must obtain written permission from the copyright holder before it can be posted on iTunes U. For podcasts of courses, this includes the content within the courses as well.
How do I submit content?
You may use the content submission form. You must have a valid CNetID and password in order to submit content. If you have content you believe is suitable for the University’s iTunes site, and you do not have a CNetID, please contact us.
Can I get help producing or recording my content?
Yes. The Chicago Media Initiatives Group provides audio and video production and editing services at competitive rates. For more information, visit the CMIG website where you can find the published rate card and a recording request form. If you would like to discuss your project with a producer, call CMIG’s Production Coordinator at: 773.702.2509.
Can I produce or record my own content and submit it in completed form?
Yes. See our tips for producing great video.
Are there campus resources to rent audio and video equipment?
Yes. NSIT Audio Visual Services provides both equipment and guidance for producing your own content. For more information call 773-834-4499 or email avs@uchicago.edu
How can I ensure the quality of my audio or video is good enough for a podcast?
There are several steps you can take to ensure the quality of your recorded content, including paying attention to lighting, microphones, background noise, and the like. See our tips for producing great video.
What kind of subject matter makes the best content for iTunes U?
Almost any subject matter is suitable, but certain types of events or lectures are better than others for recorded formats. For example, lectures that depend heavily on slides to convey understanding, do not make good audio recordings. Expressive readings by authors make wonderful audio recordings, on the other hand. Theatrical performances, demonstrations and discussions with multiple speakers make great video pieces. Events that take place in locations that restrict audience size or would be of particular interest to an audience group that is not within proximity of the event, also make ideal recorded material because it allows wider distribution.
Who decides whether submitted content will be posted on the University’s iTunes site?
The University’s iTunes U site is managed by a steering committee composed of administrators and staff members from University Communications and NSIT. Decisions about content selection are made by this group.
What if I have a question or comment about content posted on the University’s iTunes site?
If you have questions or comment about any content you find on the University of Chicago iTunes U site, please contact us to share your feedback.
Why has the University of Chicago adopted iTunes U?
Divisions, schools, departments, and individuals have expressed interest in sharing audio and video content that contains their thoughts, ideas, research, and experiences to enrich lives and engage people around the world. iTunes U by Apple provides a commonly-used platform where the University can help our community reach a broader audience. iTunes U is one of a number of channels that the institution uses to raise the awareness and extend the reach of research, teaching and learning at the University of Chicago.