For my dogs, we used a non-toxic spray that tastes bitter when they lick it (found at Petco or any pet store, really). While they probably were a bit understimulated, its difficult to constantly entertain them when you are a full time student and working. This was a quick way to assure that they would not eat/lick furniture or carpet.

For my dogs, we started by taking the pads outside with us. That way they got used to physically going outside. Then slowly we removed the pads. Rewarding them when they go outside is really important but equally as important is to just wait outside until they go. But I would definitely start with taking the pads outside.