Computer Requirements 

 

Some online courses have specific program requirements. Students must check with the instructor if they have questions about the specific requirements for a particular course. Currently Blue Ridge Community and Technical College runs Microsoft Windows XP as the operating system with Microsoft Office 2003 as the productivitiy suite. (Note: If you take OFTC 102 Microsoft Office Applications Intro., you must have access to Microsoft Office 2007).

You will use WebCT for you online class - see How to Use WebCT for directions.

Click here for Encarta Online - use this site to help with your research projects.

Skills you must possess to take an Online Class

1. Comfortable with a Windows operating system.  (You must know how to use your computer and solve problems you encounter).
2. Able to install and maintain virus protection.
3. Able to download files from the Internet.
4. Able to use Microsoft Word or other word processing program.
5. Able to e-mail (send, receive, attach files), and utilize Web search engines.
6. Know how to save a file to a floppy disk, jump or flash drive and a hard drive.
7. Know how to create a folder.
8. Know how to start up and shut down a computer.
9. A self-motivated learner.
10. Very seldom misses deadlines.
11. Learn best independently.
12. Communicates well in writing.

Successful Students

1. Learn before class begins or very soon thereafter how to effectively use e-mail and a web browser.
2. Are willing to adapt their study schedule and skills to the new technologies and learn to write differently.
3. Keep up with bulletin board postings rather than fall so far behind that they find it difficult to follow the discussion.
4. Work well independently.
5. Are self-motivated and resourceful.
6. Also work well collaboratively, exchanging ideas in writing after careful thought, giving and expecting respect for the group effort.
7. Create their own study schedule and keep with it.

Students who DO NOT do well in Online Classes

1. Don’t like to prepare in advance for tests and writing assignments.
2. Lack the time or commitment to keep up with the weekly readings, assignments, and discussions.

You should take online classes if:

1. You have Internet access and plan to do all your course work from that location.  Or, you have regular and reliable Internet access on a shared computer (or computers).
2. You prefer not to come to campus regularly to attend class.
3. You like to study at your own pace, or at odd hours, or need to schedule class around a work schedule.
4. You know enough about your computer, e-mail, and the web function in a basic way without direct assistance.  Please realize that you will be required to do more than “social chat” and “surf the web.”
5. You are willing to spend extra time beyond “normal class hours” in school labs or elsewhere using our course Web site to contribute to the online course discussions.