Student Readiness
From FCTL eLearning Wiki
Contents |
Is online learning right for me?
On-line learning may not be for everyone. The successful online learner will possess adequate computer skills and knowledge, the ability to manage their own time and be self-directed in their studies, as well as have access to a computer and to the Internet at times which meet their schedule.
Self-directed Learners
Successful on-line learners tend to be self-directed. That is, they possess the ability to organize their own time. The self-directed learner decides what, when, and how they study. They tend to be goal-oriented and have good problem-solving skills. They also possess good research skills and are confident in their ability to find answers to questions.
Skills-assessment
To help you decide if on-line learning is right for you, we suggest you complete the TOOLS inventory at the following URL. This brief survey will help you evaluate your readiness for online learning.
http://www.ferris.edu/htmls/academics/center/IT/TOOLS/TOOLs.htm
Computer Requirements
Browsers
Ferris State University currently uses Blackboard's Vista 4 Enterprise Edition for its Learning Management System (LMS). FSU has branded its Vista 4 installation as "FerrisConnect". Access to FerrisConnect is accomplished over the Internet and is delivered via a Web browser.
You can check to see which browser you are currently using by following the “Check Browser” link on the FSU WebCT Entry Page, or by clicking on the following link. Check Browser.
Supported Browsers - Vista 4.2
Hardware and Software Requirements
Computer hardware requirements are for the most part, determined by the software to be installed. System requirements include the operating system, processing power, memory, and available drive space. Other requirements may include the type of monitor, and type of connection to the Internet.
Ferris’s Student and Administrative Technology Services (SATS) provides support to all of the residential hall computer labs on campus. SATS maintains a current list of recommendations for computer hardware and software for use at FSU.
Student Computer Hardware Recommendations
It is important to keep in mind that these are recommended minimum requirements and a faster connection speed and more computing memory may improve performance.
Common browser plug-ins for FerrisConnect
Java - Required
Adobe Reader
Flash Reader
Internet Connection Speed
Internet connection speeds will affect the amount of information and the rate that information may be accessed over the Internet. If you connect to the Internet from home over a dial-up connection, the download rate for accessing documents in your online course will be significantly slower than would over a broadband connection. If your online course includes accessing video or audio files, or downloading PowerPoint files, there may be a several seconds to several minutes wait before you can view the material. The use of FerrisConnect requires a broadband connection.
