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Distance Education Student Guide

 

Technical Requirements

To enroll in an online course, you must have access to a computer with the following:
 

Operating System

Windows XP or higher
Internet Browser Internet Explorer (IE) 7.0 or higher
Note: IE5, IE6, and Google Chrome are NOT supported and should not be used with Blackboard.
RAM Minimum of 128 MB; 1 GB recommended
Connection Speed Minimum – 56 kbps Dial-up Modem (not recommended)
Recommended – High speed connection such as DSL or cable
Note: Problems may occur during Blackboard exam sessions if connected through a wireless PC, laptop, or satellite ISP provider.

Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee optimal performance since background tasks or programs (i.e. antivirus software) may be using necessary memory.

Additional information regarding technical requirements is listed below.

  • Popup blockers should be turned off before accessing Blackboard.

  • Java 6 – Update 13 or higher is the only supported Java Runtime Environment.

  • JavaScript and Cookies must be set to "enabled' or "true."

  • Java must be enabled. Alternatively, selecting the medium security level on the Privacy tab of Internet Options will provide the necessary settings.

  • Some courses may require that one or more of the following plug-in application programs be downloaded. Each course should specify which programs are required.

    • Adobe Reader

    • Apple QuickTime

    • Adobe Flash Player

    • Microsoft Windows Media Player

    • Windows Media Player Plugin for Firefox browsers

    • Windows Media Player Plugin for Macs (Flip4Mac)

    • RealNetworks RealOne Player

    • Java

    These plug-in application programs are free downloads from the vendors. Generally, plug-in software is present on newly purchased computers.

Technology Learning Center, Room BE 108

Computers with these components are available for student usage in the NACC library or a campus computer lab. (Hours and computer availability vary; students should check with individual labs.)