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Technical Requirements

In order to participate in a distance learning course from CCM, students MUST be familiar with their own computer, the internet, and basic software. The college does not provide software to students for their individual use. It is not a good idea to install new system updates during the semester. If you are having trouble with your computer, you should first contact your professor and let him/her know about the problem and seek an alternate way to submit work. Computers  equipped with the necessary software for online courses are available in the Library. Information on distance learning technical requirements are available in the Student's Guide to Distance Learning. If you still require further assistance after viewing the guides, please call 973-328-5290. For further information and Blackboard questions, check the Blackboard/WebCT Website. 
 

HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS

  • PC computer running at 200 MHz or better with Windows 98 or higher
  • OR an Apple Macintosh 9.0 or higher
  • Broadband or modem connection for the internet (many courses require broadband)
  • Sound card and speakers
  • Updated anti-virus software
 
INTERNET RQUIREMENTS
  • Web browser: Internet Explorer up to 7 (IE 8 is not yet supported) or Firefox 3.0. JavaScript must be enabled.
  • Pop-up Blockers must be disengaged. Blackboard contains many features that are pop-ups and must be allowed for full functionality of the course.
  • Blackboard Browser tune up must be completed before classes begin. The tune up link can be found on the login page for Blackboard.
PLUG-INS
Some plug-ins are required to make your course fully accessible, especially if it is rich in multimedia content. A FREE version of the following software is available by clicking on the link. Many of these plug-ins come loaded on new computers. If you are having difficulties viewing something in your course, try downloading the latest version of these programs.
  • MOZILLA/FIREFOX is an alternate browser to Internet Explorer. If you are having technical problems in your blackboard course, try downloading this free browser.
  •  JAVA allows you to run small "programs" that are found within web pages. After logging into the Blackboard Learning System, you will be prompted to accept a JAVA security certificate.
  • FLASH PLAYER is used to view multimedia presentations. Flash player comes standard with computers and is also included in most web browsers.
  • REAL PLAYER allows you to listen to or view streaming media. A number of online courses use Real Player and require the player.
  • QUICK TIME is a program for handling multimedia files. It allows you to download and use audio and visual clips.
  • SHOCKWAVE is used to view Macromedia Director multimedia presentations.
  • ACROBAT READER is necessary for viewing pdf files.
  • POWERPOINT VIEWER is available to download for students who do not own PowerPoint software and need to view PowerPoint presentations.
  • WINDOWS MEDIA PLAYER is used for viewing multimedia files. With the player, you can download and use audio and video files.
 
SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
Software requirements vary by course. All students must have word processing software, preferably Microsoft Word (Office 2007 is now being used in the majority of courses). Other word processing software packages (Microsoft Works) may not be compatible for use in your course.
 
EMAIL
Students should also have an email account. In addition to the Blackboard email that is used to communicate within a course, a CCM student email is also set up for each individual student of the college. 
Blackboard Login Student Guide to Distance Learning
Distance Learning 973-328-5184
Email lrcdist@ccm.edu