Since all your courses are taken online, it is important to have the right computer equipment to ensure the best possible learning experience.

Electronic communication is the preferred method of communication for students, faculty and staff. In order to take advantage of this technology, it is required that students, faculty and staff acquire and maintain email access with the capability to send and receive attached files.

OS: Windows XP. (NOTE: Macintoshes may work although they are not officially supported.)

Browsers: Internet Explorer 4 or later; Netscape 6.1 or later; or Firefox 3.0 or later; Google Chrome. Moodle will work with just about any browser. However, IAU recommends the use of Firefox. If you use MS Internet Explorer, you may encounter problems downloading files (such as Word or PowerPoint files) placed in the course by your instructor. Because of certain security weaknesses in IE, Microsoft uses a default setting that blocks the automatic downloading of files. The result will be a blank white frame and an error message from IE.

To download the latest version, click on the browser of your preference.

Cookies and JavaScript should be enabled in your browser.

Optional software that will facilitate your learning experience

Plug-ins: Browsers use “plug-ins” (mini applications installed within the browser itself) to enable richer Web experiences. The plug-ins listed below are the more common applications that Web sites use; check your online course syllabus to find out if you will need any of the software in your course. In case you find that you are missing a plug-in or you want a newer version, click the linked name of the application listed below to download and install the free software. In all cases, any version listed is the oldest you should have for a successful experience; newer versions are always acceptable.

• Macromedia Shockwave
• Macromedia Flash
• Apple Quick Time Video
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Windows Media Player
• RealPlayer
• Java

Hardware

(Note: These are minimum requirements. We recommend you exceed these requirements for a better experience. It is recommended that the computer you use for your online classes is for your private use. This will help decrease technical issues.)

IBM or Compatible Computer

• Intel Pentium 4 processor or equivalent
• 512MB or more of RAM if using Windows 2000 or XP
• 56Kbps modem (Broadband recommended)
• 32 MB video card
• Hard Drive disk space. (This requirement will vary depending on which class you are enrolled in. The disk space is for downloading articles and installing required plug-in software.)
• 24x CD-ROM Drive (Some classes may provide supplemental materials via CD's)
• Sound card and speakers
• Printer - Students who wish to print online resources will need a printer with this capability.