Technical Requirements for Online Learning
Class Options
In the schedule of classes, you will see different formats of online classes: Fully Online, Partially Online, HyFlex, and Online Live. Some classes may use a combination of both course deliveries. See the table below or the Online Class Options video for descriptions of each delivery method.
Fully Online | Online Live | Partially Online | HyFlex | |
How will my class be conducted? | All class work is conducted online through Canvas without a requirement for real-time/live meetings. | You will meet with your instructor online during scheduled class times via Zoom and Canvas. | Some required class meetings will be conducted on-campus. The remainder of the class will be online. | Students can join the scheduled class session online or on campus based on student preference. The rest of the classwork is conducted online. (HyFlex is a blend of hybrid and flexible instruction) |
What can I expect of my instructor
Your instructor will initiate regular and substantive contact with you throughout the course through Canvas messages, assignments, discussions, regular office hours, Zoom, etc.
Technology Requirements:
Classroom technology may include using Canvas, an online classroom system with discussions, assignments, and grades to online meetings using Zoom and Office 365 suite (e.g., Word and PowerPoint). Your instructor may alter or add to these technical requirements. Please read the class schedule and course syllabus carefully!
- Microsoft Office 365
- Zoom
- Canvas shown below
Computer Specifications
Canvas and its hosting infrastructure are designed for maximum compatibility and minimal requirements.
Screen Size
A minimum of 1024x768. That is the average size of a netbook. You probably won't want to view Canvas on a smaller screen than that.
Operating Systems
Canvas requires an operating system that can run the latest compatible web browsers. Your computer operating system should be kept up to date with the latest recommended security updates and upgrades.
Computer Speed and Processor
- Use a computer 5 years old or newer when possible
- 2GB of RAM
- 2GHz processor
Internet Speed
Along with compatibility and web standards, Canvas has been carefully crafted to accommodate low bandwidth environments.
Minimum of 512k
Screen Readers
- Macintosh: VoiceOver (latest version for Safari)
- PC: JAWS (latest version for Firefox)
- PC: NVDA (latest version for Firefox)
- There is no screen reader support for Canvas in Chrome
Notice* Canvas recommends a minimum bandwidth of 512K which is basic DSL.
Which browsers does Canvas support?
Canvas supports the current and first previous major releases of the following browsers:
- Chrome
- Safari
- Firefox
Mobile Browsers
The Canvas interface was optimized for desktop displays, so using small form factors such as phones may not be a pleasant experience in using Canvas. For the best user experience, please download the Canvas mobile applications.
iOS
- Safari (default browser with limited Canvas support)
- Chrome
Android
- Chrome (default browser with limited Canvas support)*
- Internet
- Firefox
JavaScript
Must be enabled to run Canvas.
Other Notes:
Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari use HTML5 to display website content, promoting a faster, more secure browsing experience. HTML5 audio and video may not be supported in older browsers, so audio and video must still be used via Flash.
The full list of Canvas' technical requirements can be found by visiting: Canvas browser and computer requirements
For any other issues in Canvas Please contact the 24/7 Canvas support chat