- About OhioLearns!
- FAQS
Frequently asked e-learning questions -
Regional Coordinators
Local help in your area
- Explore
- Get a plan
Are you ready for distance learning? - Get started
Self-based exploration - Get support
Local help in your area
Hardware & Software Checklist
What type of computer equipment do I need?
Your first question should be “How will I be using my computer for distance learning?” If you will be taking an on-line course, (a course delivered over the Internet) you will find that you will often need a more powerful computer than if you were taking a course without an Internet connection, such as CD or DVD course. Specific computer requirements for courses are often described on the transition page in the OhioLearns! catalog. Before you enroll or invest in upgrading your personal computer for on-line courses, check first to see what you will need. A checklist of questions you might need to ask the institution you plan to take courses from may include:
- Will it matter what type of operating system I have (such as Windows NT 4.0/2000/XP or MacOS)?
- How much RAM is preferred?
- How fast of a connection should I have with the Internet?
- Will I need a Sound card and speakers? What type of monitor do I need?
- Do I need a mouse/trackball?
- How do I access the Internet, and is there a monthly fee for this?
- Do I need a graphical Web Browser that is Java capable (preferably Netscape 7.2 or Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher - both can be downloaded for free by using the provided links.)
- Do I need an e-mail program/account that can send and receive attachments and that is MIME compliant?
- Do I need Word processing software that has a spell checker (such as Microsoft Word or Word Perfect)?
- Do I need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view PDF documents?
- Do I need a flash player, such as Macromedia Flash, in order to view videos?
