 Distance
Learning
The following information is for students
taking distance learning classes (including classes
supported with Blackboard).
Online Connection. Otterbein
highly recommends high-speed broadband Internet service
for students using Blackboard and other online tools.
Dial-up telephone connections are discouraged; the
Department of Information Technology will not troubleshoot
problems with dial-up connections.
If you are currently using a dial-up
telephone connection, consider switching to a broadband
service such as cable modem, DSL, ISDN or satellite.
Information for AOL users.
If you are using AOL, you should not use AOL's built-in
browser. Instead, launch Internet Explorer and access
Blackboard with that browser (be sure to keep AOL running
and open).
Depending on which version of AOL you're
using, you may find yourself being disconnected. This
can be problematic during online Blackboard tests.
You may want to consider using an "always alive"
utility to keep your AOL connection open. (Be sure
to check AOL's terms before using one of these utilities).
Hardware and Software.
Distance and off-campus students' computer hardware
and software needs are not as rigorous as for on-campus.
In short, feel free to use whatever computer hardware
and software you like. The most critical consideration
is your Internet connection (above).
For completing assignments, you may need
MS Word, Excel and/or Powerpoint (all part of the MS
Office suite). Check with your instructors regarding
your exact needs.
Click here
to view the hardware and software recommendations for
on-campus computers.
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