On Oct. 2, a new version of eLion will be unveiled for students at Penn State. All students will have access to the newly redesigned eLion platform, which features many updates, including a more user-centered interface and better visual layout. Since both versions access the same student record database, the original version will continue to operate simultaneously with the new version until it is decommissioned in early January 2013. However, students are encouraged to use the new eLion on a permanent basis.
Based on input from students, the enhanced eLion platform has been designed to incorporate visual improvements and several new services, such as an easy-to-read Message Center (separated by in-screen pop-up sections for personal and general messages); a more concise and collapsible categorized sidebar menu with expanding arrows; a “favorite services” option; quick-links for easy access to popular features; and a newly added predictive auto-fill search engine, among other new and improved service features.
The new version of eLion was recently piloted during the spring semester by students in certain colleges and at other campus locations in an effort to monitor and collect feedback prior to the October 2, University-wide launch.
“Feedback was very positive when we monitored performance and collected comments from students in the recent pilot groups," said Karen Schultz, university registrar. "Students use eLion to accomplish many things including course registration, checking grades, requesting degree audits, and accessing tuition bills, so it’s important that we listen to them and make the necessary enhancements to improve upon their experiences with the system. We feel confident we are ready to implement the new eLion platform for all students University-wide.”
eLion is a Web-based service for students, advisers, faculty and parents that provides secure real-time access to academic and financial records in the University’s administrative database.
The eLion redesign was a collaborative effort with organizations from across the University, including the Shields Resources Student Advisory Board, student focus groups, members of the eLion Governance and Operations teams as well as development teams made up of the Office of the University Registrar, the Office of the Bursar, the Office of Student Aid, the Division of Undergraduate Studies, and Administrative Information Services.
Following the successful launch of the new eLion version for Students, the other sections within eLion (Advisers, Parent, Former Students, and Faculty) also will be converted to the new and improved platform.
For comments and feedback regarding eLion contact elionfeedback@psu.edu.
For eLion technical support contact ais-support@psu.edu.