Online technology requirements does not have to be a complicated list of high end and expensive services and devices. If at home you’re already able to stream Netflix while someone else is looking at YouTube or on a Zoom Call, then chances are you’re probably almost well equipped for online learning.
At the core of it, all online classes require high-speed Internet access. A webcam and a headset or microphone on your device is recommended and sometimes may be required.
Listed below are the minimum requirements from both a proficiency and technology perspective for a stress free online experience.
TECHNOLOGY PROFICIENCY
You should be proficient in the following:
- basic computer skills
- sending/receiving email
- sending and receiving attachments via email
- using a web browser
- finding resources through search engines
- downloading and installing software
- familiarity with using browser plug-ins (e.g. PDF reader, video, audio)
- using a word processing, presentation software, or other productivity applications
- familiarity with online word processing tools such as Google Docs, Google Sheets and Google Slides
- experience/familiarity with a variety of file formats such as: .pdf “Portable Document Format”, .rtf “Rich Text Format”, .doc or .docx “Microsoft Word Document”, and .txt “Text document”
COMPUTER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Hardware
- PC or Mac that is at most 3 years old
- 8GB RAM
- 128Gb Hard Drive
- Monitor
- Speakers
- Microphone
- Headset
- Webcam
- Additional Hardware may be Required depending on the class / teacher needs
Tablets are good consumer devices i.e. if you are simply joining a video call and may only need to speak or show video. If you are creating content, i.e. need to do SBAs, assignments in MS Word etc, a device with a large screen, mouse and keyboard is recommend.
Software
- Windows 8.1 or Above
- Mac OS 10.14 or Above
- Productivity Suite e.g. Microsoft Office / O365 or Google Productivity Suite
- Krisp Noise Cancellation Software
Internet Connection
- High speed Broadband Internet Connection is Required
- Test your Internet speed using speedtest.net, for an accurate speed test representative of your connection
- Recommended Internet speeds:
- Ping response is less than 100ms
- Download speed is at least 10Mbps
- Upload speed is at least 2Mbps
- Recommended Internet speeds:
- Test your Internet speed using speedtest.net, for an accurate speed test representative of your connection
- Please consider the following while participating in online/hybrid courses:
- Using a shared Internet connection will impact connectivity, such as additional household members use of streaming TV, gaming, and other Internet usage.
- Wireless connections may be impacted by the distance from the router and interference from microwaves and other electronics. (Wired connections are recommended.)
- Your Internet Service Provider’s performance may vary throughout the day based on community usage.
Browsers
- The most recent release of Chrome or Safari is Recommended
