New app connects students to safety info and O-Week details

WHITEHORSE—Yukon College has launched a new app for mobile devices that will instantly connect students to campus safety and security options, campus maps, academic resources and orientation week activities. YC Mobile can be found on app stores for Apple and Android devices by searching for “Yukon College”.

While aimed at students, the app is also useful for staff and visitors to Ayamdigut campus. Those using the app can quickly connect to College safety and security officers or call 911, report suspicious behaviour or wildlife activity, use their device as a flashlight or panic alarm, access College emergency response plans, book a counselling appointment and access the College’s online learning management system. Users will also receive text message notification in the event of an emergency occuring on campus.

The College was motivated to develop an app after a 2015 technology usage survey found that 77 per cent of Yukon College students used a smart phone or tablet and of these, 81 per cent of students would be likely to use a College mobile app. The app was developed alongside the creation of a comprehensive emergency response plan for Ayamdigut campus.

“YC Mobile is a tool that can enhance the safety of every individual using it as well as providing easier access to resources for students—all in one place,” said Colleen Wirth, director of Student and Infrastructure Support.

YC Mobile was created by AppArmor, a Canadian technology company that configured their app architecture to meet the needs of Yukon College. AppArmor has provided similar apps to 55 universities and colleges in Canada, Australia and the US, including Niagra College, University of British Columbia and Vancouver Island University.

Wirth said the College plans to add more features to the app so it includes information on student clubs, an events calendar, the daily Kinnikinnick Kaff menu, McIntyre Creek trail maps, the ability to reserve library books, bus schedules and the ability to book appointments with instructors.

Currently featured on the app is a link to the Orientation Week schedule. O-Week kicks off on Tuesday Sept 6 at 9:30 a.m. with keynote speaker Dene activist Eriel Deranger and a free BBQ lunch. Later in the week there is free coffee each morning from the YC Student Union, tea and bannock with Elder Annie Bernard at Roddy’s camp and an open mic/DJ social on Friday night.

The College is also running an informed sexual consent social media campaign. Students can submit their best answer for why consent is important for a chance to win a $500 gift card to the Real Canadian Superstore.

For more information, download the YC Mobile app.