Online Course Requirements and Recommendations
TECHNICAL SKILLS, the ability to:
-understand basic computer and web terminology
-send and receive e-mail and file attachments
-use a web browser to navigate the Web
-navigate among multiple open windows
-open, close, and save files and attachments
-install or have access to someone to assist with installing simple programs
-adjust browser and computer security settings
Also needed is basic familiarity and access to any additional course requirements such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Acrobat Reader, Real Player, or other specialized hardware or software (see your instructor or course information for these requirements).
If you feel that you may struggle with these skills, consider participating in the Blackboard Technical Orientation at http://www.linnbenton.edu/go/distance-education/technical-orientation .
COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS
Operating System: Windows 98, 2000, NT or XP; Mac OS9 or X
Memory: 512MB of RAM
Disk Space: enough to allow upload and download of course files.
Internet Connection: Cable, Wireless, or DSL are recommended
Internet Browser: While Blackboard should function properly when accessed via any modern web browser, the following web browsers (listed by operating system) are officially supported by Blackboard and are therefore recommended for those looking to ensure a stable Blackboard experience:
Mac OS ~ Windows
Netscape 7.1 or later ~ Firefox 1.x or later
Safari 1.1 or later ~ Internet Explorer 6 or later
Browser Notes: Java/Javascript and cookie settings must be enabled and browser security should be set to "Medium" ; AOL users MUST minimize the AOL browser and use a recommended browser from the list above to access their course successfully.
INTERNET PROVIDERS and ACCESS
If you don't already have web access through an Internet Service Provider (ISP) go to http://www.thelist.com for a list of providers; Students may visit campus and center computer labs and wireless connections for free onsite web access.
Note: Services drops in your Internet provider's connection to your home may require you to reconnect to your online course; If you experience frequent drops in service, check with your ISP for issues. A time-out of four hours of inactivity is standard.
EMAIL ACCOUNTS and SOFTWARE
You should have an email account if you take an online course. Any variety is fine, as well as a program or web site to check your account (Eudora, Outlook Express, Hotmail, Yahoo). Most programs are either free, or are come installed with your computer.
Registered students may apply for free LBCC student email accounts at http://www.linnbenton.edu/go/netmail/apply .
FINAL NOTES
Please realize that despite meeting all technical recommendations, some students may encounter difficulty accessing course content from their computers; If you decide to take an online course it is recommended that you locate an alternate computer (library, friend, family, LBCC, etc) in advance to use should you encounter difficulties that cannot be resolved with your instructor and LBCC Technical Support Services.
Some classes may have other system/software requirements so be sure to check early on with your instructor for individual course requirements.
