A student makes an appointment using a touchscreen at
Kent State University at Stark's Office of Student Services.

Students at Kent State University at Stark are now using touchscreens to request everything from financial aid advice to a cheeseburger with bacon.

At the Office of Student Services, there are three touchscreen kiosks on which students can sign in to see an advisor about academics, admissions or financial aid. To speak with a student services’ staff member, students used to sign in on a clipboard or check in at the front counter and then wait for the person to be notified by a receptionist. On the touchscreens, students enter their name and identification, as well as answer questions about the service they need. Then they receive a confirmation ticket and go to the appropriate waiting area.

“Our staff has a queue on their desktop computers so they can see who has arrived and for what service,” says Heather Guarnieri, assistant director for academic advising at Kent State Stark. “It’s more efficient and allows staff to gather information before working with the student. It’s also more streamlined and more confidential for students.”

Students follow a similar process when ordering food at the Emporium. They customize made-to-order burgers, sandwiches, pizzas and more by selecting items and toppings on a touchscreen at the order counter. Order receipts immediately print out for the customer and at the grill for the kitchen staff. No more deciphering hand-written tickets.

“Touchscreens make orders more accurate and the whole process faster,” says Jessica Anderson, food service manager at Kent State Stark. “Most students prefer the new touchscreens. It’s what they’re used to in the digital generation.”

For more information about Kent State University at Stark, visit www.stark.kent.edu.