Minimum Technology Requirements for Distance Learning
When participating in distance education courses, it is vital to consider the technology needed in order to have a successful course. We recommend that you meet the technical requirements below when using the learning management system (LMS) of the University.
Note: For additional required hardware or software requirements for your course(s), contact your instructor or refer to the course syllabus for additional information on their requirements.
Required Hardware
- A computer (desktop/laptop) or mobile device (smartphone/tablet) that is less than 5 years old will work.
- NOTE: Chromebooks are not recommended and may not be compatible with all third-party tools used in course shells.
- Speakers/headphones/earbuds for listening to audio or videos presented in courses.
Optional Hardware
- Webcam for interacting in course activities that require video feedback from students (such as VoiceThread), video test proctoring (such as Respondus Monitor), or other third-party tools.
Required Software
The following software is required :
- Internet Browsers, such as Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome, are preferred. It is also suggested to have both of these browsers, so that one can act as a backup in case the other is experiencing issues. (See Internet Browser section for more information.)
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (latest version) can be used for viewing PDF files offline (outside of a web browser). - Download.
Optional Software
- Microsoft Office (includes Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint).
- Students have free access to install the suite on their computers. Follow these instructions to install Office 365.
- Windows Media Player is one media player that can be used to play videos offline (outside of a web browser), if not presented/embedded in Blackboard. - Download.
Internet Connection
- A stable Internet connection of 56K or greater is required. (However, please note that a 56K connection may degrade the quality of your experience.)
Internet Browser(s)
Various browsers may be able to access the learning management system. We recommend the following tips:
- Use the latest versions of Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome. (Please note that eLearning (TAMIU's learning management system) may not be fully compatible with the latest versions of each browser.)
- NOTE: Do not use Internet Explorer. This browser is obsolete and is no longer supported by Blackboard.
- Be sure to properly configure your Internet browser. (Please note that Mozilla Firefox is the university-preferred browser. To download Firefox, please visit http://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/.)
- You may check if your browser is properly configured via the Browser Check provided below. This component will also be provided in the learning management system.