eLearning Online Course Requirements and Recommendations

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Basic computer skills

Experience navigating the Internet and using an Internet browser

Ability to send and receive email and file attachments

Basic knowledge of formatting using a word processing program

Navigate among multiple open windows

Ability to open, close, save, and manage files and attachments

Ability to install or have access to someone to assist with installing simple programs

Knowledge of how to adjust Internet 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 LBCC Online Learning 101 Course. Be sure to also view the LBCC Moodle Student Orientation Video.

COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS
Operating System: Windows XP or newer; Mac OS X 10.3 or newer
Memory: 1GB of RAM
Disk Space: enough to allow upload and download of course files.
Internet Connection: Cable, Wireless, or DSL

Internet Browser: While Moodle should function properly when accessed via any modern web browser, we have found that Moodle works best in Firefox 3.6 or newer.

Browser Notes: Java/Javascript and cookie settings must be enabled and browser security should be set to "Medium." AOL browser is NOT recommended for LBCC eLearning / Moodle.

Be sure to keep Java and your browser(s) updated.

INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS and ACCESS

In order to take advantage of the features and tools within our eLearning technologies, you will need a reliable high-speed (broadband) internet connection. A wireless connection is NOT recommended for test-taking. Students may visit campus and center computer labs and wireless connections for free on site web access.

Note: Service 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. For security reasons, LBCC Moodle is configured to drop your session after 3 hours of inactivity.

EMAIL ACCOUNTS and SOFTWARE

LBCC provides all registered students with a RoadRunner Mail account (powered by Google). All new students and students that have registered since January 2010 will automatically have a new RoadRunner Mail account created for them. For more information, see the RoadRunner Mail FAQ page.

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, should you encounter difficulties that cannot be resolved with your instructor and assistance from 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.