Technology and Skills requirements for online learning

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Tech and Skill Requirements

Technology and Skills Requirements

AOL is currently not recommended for use with Blackboard. See browser requirements below. Some courses may have additional requirements. Check the course description for more information.

Note: If using FireFox, Javascript and cookies must be enabled in order to login to Blackboard.

PC Minimum configuration:

· CPU: 600MHz Intel Celeron processor

· Memory: 64MB RAM

· Hard drive: 6.4GB hard drive

· CD-ROM drive

· Operating System: Windows XP (recommended), Windows 2000, Windows ME/98

Macintosh Minimum configuration:

· CPU: 500MHz Power PC processor (Power Macintosh G3)

· Memory: 64MB RAM

· Hard drive: 20GB Hard drive

· CD-ROM drive

· Operating System: Macintosh OS, current versions (OS 9.2.2/10)

Web Browser Requirements [View Blackboard browser info chart]

PC Users, Blackboard recommends

· Windows Vista - Mozilla FireFox 2.0 (**IE 7 is not recommended at this time**)

· Windows XP - Mozilla FireFox or Internet Explorer 6.1

· Windows 2000 - Mozilla FireFox or Internet Explorer 6.1

Macintosh Users, Blackboard recommends

· Mac OS 9.2 - Netscape Navigator 7.0 or Internet Explorer 5.1

· Mac OS X.1 - Netscape Navigator 7.0 or Internet Explorer 5.1 or 5.2

· Mac OS X.2 - Netscape Navigator 7.0 or Internet Explorer 5.2

Note: Javascript and cookies must be enabled in order to log into Blackboard.

AOL Users

AOL is currently not recommended for use with Blackboard. You will need to use either Mozilla FireFox or Internet Explorer when accessing your online courses. Most computers have a pre-installed version of an external browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape. Or download now using the links above.

1. Get online in your usual way.

2. Close or minimize the AOL browser.

3. Open Internet Explorer or Netscape.

4. Go to the WAOL Home Page to begin the login process.

Pop-up Blockers

Many newer browsers include pop-up blockers that may block quizzes, test or assignments from popping up in your Blackboard classroom. If you experiance any difficulties accessing classroom materials, turn off any pop-up blockers that you may be running and attempt to access the classroom materials.

Some classes may require you to download these plug-ins:

RealPlayer (look for free version)

Flash Player

QuickTime Player

PowerPoint Viewer

Virus Protection - Visit our Computer Virus Information page to learn more

Computer viruses can cause damage to your computer and the files stored in it. If you send a file with a virus to someone else in your class, that person's computer may become "infected" as well. Anti-virus software is available to help protect your computer. You can find both a free version and a full commercial version by visiting http://www.mcafee.com

Computer and Internet Access

You will need access to a computer and the Internet 5 out of 7 days a week for a total of 12 or more hours a week for each five-credit class. You can use more than one computer (home, work, and school).

For a list of Internet Service Providers visit http://thelist.internet.com/ or use our online Directory of Learning Centers to find places near you that provide computer access.

Skills Requirements

Before you take an online class, you should be confident about your computer and study skills. Review the following list of requirements to assess your readiness to take online classes.

· I know how to connect to the Web using a web browser.

· I can navigate around the Web and know how to use search engines.
- If not, visit http://searchenginewatch.com/facts/index.html for tips

· I know how to send and receive e-mail using the e-mail system of my choice.
- New to e-mail? Visit http://www.albion.com/netiquette for tips.

· I know how to do basic word processing, including cutting and pasting.

· I know how to open, save, and manage files.

· I have access to a computer 5-7 days per week.

· The computer I will use meets the basic requirements for online classes.

· I have 12 to 15 hours a week to work on each online class.

· I can motivate myself to log in to the virtual classroom at least 5 days a week.

· I have good reading comprehension and written communication skills, and I enjoy communicating in writing.

· I enjoy figuring things out on my own but am able to ask for help when I need it.

If you can't answer "Yes" to all these questions, you may not be quite ready for online learning. Visit Is Online Learning for Me to learn more and read more Tips for Web Learners.

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