This program is not an on-line degree. It is a networked learning community in which computer competence and technology access complement the face-to-face, collaborative and mentoring interactions that are at the core of our learning model. "On-line" or "at-a-distance" is not the defining characteristic of the program. That said, all students are required to have a computer and Internet access. The program's standardized software and email package is provided to all students for program communication. Evidence of technological competency is part of the admissions process. Advanced Internet Research skills are taught. Technology support for students is available via on line help, email, and telephone.
All students must have access to a computer configured with software that meets the minimum requirements below. The program highly recommends that every student have a laptop in order to make the residency experience as fruitful as possible. For students who need to purchase a computer to meet these requirements, the costs can be covered through the student's financial aid package. A note about the computer standards: computer technology changes quickly and the Program's identification of minimum requirements is fairly subjective but should be used as a guide.
A note about the standards
Computer technology changes quickly and is fairly subjective when it identifies minimum requirements. Below is a set of guidelines that have been broken down into three separate categories:
1. Absolute minimum technology
2. Recommended technology a more amplified educational experience
3. Technical recommendations for anyone considering a new computer. These specifications are in line with low-end models (i.e under $1250.)
Macintosh Hardware
Note: Elluminate software requires a headset.
Minimum
Component |
Specification |
Note |
Processor |
G3 |
These minimums apply to the Elluminate software. |
Operating System |
Mac OS 10.2.8 |
|
Hard drive |
1 GB (20 MB free) |
|
Memory (Ram) |
256 MB |
|
Headset |
none |
|
Connection method |
56K modem |
|
Recommended
Component |
Specification |
Note |
Processor |
G4 or above |
|
Operating System |
Mac OS 10.3.9 or later |
|
Hard drive |
4 GB or above |
|
Memory (Ram) |
512 MB |
|
Headset |
none |
|
Connection method |
DSL or cable modem |
|
New Macintosh
Component |
Specification |
Note |
Processor |
G5 or Intel |
|
Operating System |
Mac OS 10.4 or later |
|
Hard drive |
40-80 GB |
|
Memory (Ram) |
1 GB |
|
Headset |
none |
|
Connection method |
DSL or cable modem |
|
PC Hardware
Note: Elluminate software requires a headset
Minimum
Component |
Specification |
Note |
Processor |
Pentium III 500 MHz process or faster |
These minimums apply to the Elluminate software. |
Operating System |
Windows 2000/XP/Vista |
|
Hard drive |
20 GB |
|
Memory (Ram) |
256 MB |
|
Sound card |
Card & headset |
|
Connection method |
56k modem |
|
Recommended
Component |
Specification |
Note |
Processor |
Pentium III or later |
|
Operating System |
Windows 2000/XP/Vista |
|
Hard drive |
40 GB or above |
|
Memory (Ram) |
512 MB |
|
Sound card |
Card & headset |
|
Connection method |
DSL or cable modem |
|
New PC
Component |
Specification |
Note |
Processor |
Pentium 4 |
|
Operating System |
Windows XP or Vista |
|
Hard drive |
80 GB or above |
|
Memory (Ram) |
1 GB |
|
Sound card |
Card and headset |
|
Connection method |
DSL or cable modem |
|
Note: Windows Millennium (ME) is incompatible with the First Class software. If you have this operating system, you must upgrade to Windows XP or Vista in order to use First Class.
The most critical link in the technology chain regarding this Program is not whether a student uses the fastest chip released by Intel or Apple but rather, the Internet connection. The fastest computer will not make much difference in a student's day-to-day experience if she/he has an eight-year-old 28.8k modem. Therefore, the Program strongly recommends a full-time, high-speed connection using either DSL or a cable modem. In locations where these technologies are not yet available, we recommend using at least a 56k modem.
Software
The only required applications that we leave to the student's discretion concern word processing and virus protection,
Word Processing
Microsoft Word 2004 for Mac or Word 2003 for the PC is the standard for word processing. A good choice for students in general is an office suite package such as Office 2004 for the Mac or Office 2007 for the PC that includes word processing, presentation, spreadsheet, and other useful software. Some new computer purchases have this software already installed.
Any word processing program that saves and opens text files and that saves in multiple file formats can be used. If you would like to use a program other than MS Word, it must be able to save in a format known as Rich Text Format ("rtf"). It will be incumbent upon the participants to either use the agreed upon standard for word processing, MS Word, or be able to save files in the rtf format.
Anti-Virus Software
It is critical that every computer has current anti-virus software and that users be aware that monthly updates are required in order for it to be effective.
Since this particular choice doesn't impact others, there is no Program standard beyond the fact that all Program participants, students, faculty and staff, have anti-virus software. Below is a list of several major publishers with their web site addresses.
Norton Anti-virus
Most anti-virus software publishers offer monthly updates so that the newest viruses can be detected and eliminated. Current software typically includes options for the software to automatically log into the publisher's website and update the software on a schedule.
Many anti-virus programs come bundled as part of a network security package. Please be aware that many network security programs setup a local firewall that may completely disable the functionality of FirstClass and/or Elluminate. Please consult FirstClass support on instructions on how to enable application access within your specific network security software.
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