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Computer and Internet Access Requirements

To participate in an PCCOnline or CCCOnline course, students are expected to be familiar with computers and the Internet. Distance Learning students must have access to the following equipment:    

1.  Access to a personal computer with Internet access and a web browser Internet
     Explorer, Firefox, or Safarie (latest Version)  AOL and MSN may not be used as
     browsers.  You may use them to access the Internet, but then minimize and launch an
     approved browser.

2.  128 Mb RAM (256 Mb highly recommended) and at least 50 Mb of available disk space
     for assignments. 

3.   A modem or other device capable of connecting to the internet at a speed of at least 56 
      kbps or better highly  recommended). AOL and MSN may not be used as browsers. You
      may use them to access the Internet but then minimize and launch an approved browser.

4.    An active email account through which you can communicate with your instructor and
       classmates.

If you are having trouble accessing Desire2Learn through your web browser, the first thing you should do is run our browser diagnostics test by clicking on the link below.  This test will determine if your browser is Desire2Learn compatible and will check for common settings that need to be configured correctly before you can use Desire2Learn. Once the test is complete, you will be given instructions on how to proceed. There are two websites that are great for running a browser diagnostics test.  They are Pearson Educational Browser and Desire2Learn@UWW

(After clicking one of the links wait for the new page to fully load)

   Any software peculiar to the course for which you are registered. For example, as a student
   registeredfor CIS118 Microsoft Office, you would need to have access to the Microsoft Office
   software.

  • If you are experiencing technical difficulties, do not wait until the last minute to contact your instructor!

   ** Other Software

  An Email account and a word processing software program. 

Microsoft Office Viewers - posted on 01/27/06

Description: Viewers provide a means for people who don't have Microsoft Office programs to see Word, Excel, or Powerpoint work.

Link: http://office.microsoft.com/assistance/9798/viewerscvt.aspx 

   A sound card and speakers are required for some courses.

   Plugins for certain features of a course.

Download sites for Plug Ins

**Some classes may have specific class requirements for additional software.  These requirements will be listed on  the course information page.

***** Note that students are responsible for their own software and equipment maintenance and setup.***