Introduction
Computer Literacy
Self Assessment
Software
Requirements
Browser Check
and Configuration
Java Runtime Environment
Contact Information:
Administration
General Office
Technical Support
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Software Requirements
The e-learning Environment
Administration uses the Blackboard Vista 4 e-learning environment to deliver all of its online courses. Only the software
applications and computer plugins identified below, which have been tested and confirmed as being compatible with this e-learning environment,
are recommended for use by students in Administration online courses.
To access online courses with a minimum of technical difficulties, students require a reliable Internet connection,
a modern computer and specific software applications and plugins. Access to a printer is recommended but not required.
While courses can be taken using slower dial-up Internet connections,
high-speed Internet connections (cable or ADSL) will provide a much more satisfactory learning experince.
Computer Operating Systems
Blackboard Vista 4 is compatible with the following computer operating systems:
- Microsoft Windows
- Windows 2000
- Windows XP
- Windows Vista (Please note: although Windows Vista is not officially supported by Blackboard
at this time, Windows Vista users have not, to date, reported any problems in using that operating system.
- Apple Macintosh OS X
Web Browsers
Computers should be equiped with at least one web browser.
- For Microsoft-based Computers:
- Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 SP2, and 7.0.
- Firefox 1.5x, and 2.0x.
- For Macintosh-based Computers:
- Firefox 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0x
- Safari 1.3, and 2.0x (on the Intel x86 platform)
- All the above browsers except Safari 2.0x are available free via the Internet.
- Browser versions lower or higher than those mentioned above may not be compatible with Vista 4.
- Browser(s) should be Java enabled, JavaScript enabled, accept cookies, and have pop-up blockers turned
off while connected to the Blackboard Vista 4 e-learning environment.
Applications Software
Word processing software is the principle software application required for completing Administration
online courses.
- Administration requires that (almost) all assignments must be saved and submitted as .doc files created with
one of the following software applications:
- Microsoft Word - version 2000 or higher (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, XP, or X)
- WordPerfect - version 10 or higher (11, 12, and X3)
- Microsoft Word 2007 users must save and submit assignment files as Word 1997-2003 documents (.doc files)
rather than in the default Word 2007 format (.docx files).
- Students who do not have access to any of these word processing programs, will probably need to purchase one of
them. Administration can assist students to obtain significantly discounted academic pricing for this (and
other) software. Please email software@govsource.net for details.
- Free alternative word processors such as Google docs, Zoho Writer and OpenOffice have not been fully
tested in the Administration environment. Students are welcome to experiment with those word processors,
but must realize that the reduced functionality in those packages could, in a worst case scenario, result in
reduced instructor feedback and academic penalties.
Plugin Modules
- The Shockwave Flash Player, a free download from Adobe, is required to view some of the course materials.
(Go to Adobe Flash Player to download
the latest version of the Shockwave Flash Player.)
- If the Adobe website invites you to also install an optional toolbar (Google, Yahoo, etc.), please deselect this
option as these toolbars can interfere with the Blackboard Vista 4 e-learning environment
- Adobe Acrobat Reader, also a free download from Adobe, is required for Windows users to view portable
document (.pdf) files. Go to Adobe Acrobat Reader to download
the latest version of Acrobat Reader.
- If the Adobe website invites you to also install an optional toolbar (Google, Yahoo, etc.), please deselect this
option as these toolbars can interfere with the Blackboard Vista 4 e-learning environment
- Macintosh users can open PDF files with the Preview application included with OS X, or with alternate browser
plug-ins such as Schubert-IT if they do not have Acrobat Reader.
If you have questions or require assistance in meeting these software requirements, please contact
Technical Support for additional information.
Supplementary Information
Click here
for browser plugins that are compatible with Vista 4
Click here
for browser tune-up and troubleshooting tips
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Online Learning Consultants, Ltd. (2009)
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