Computer Literacy and Technical Requirements for CTER Online

Computer Literacy Requirements

Students enrolled in CTER Online courses are expected to have elementary knowledge of a microcomputer operating system (Windows or Mac OS X) and basic knowledge of software tools such as:

• Word processors
• Email software
• Web browsers

Minimum Hardware and Software Requirements

These requirements will be in effect for the CTER 11 cohort, beginning in 2008.

• Macintosh G4, G5, or Intel-based processor -OR- Windows-compatible PC (available BOTH at home and at work)
• Minimum 512MB of memory (more is better)
• CD-ROM drive (DVD-ROM recommended)
• Mac OS X 10.4 or later -OR- Windows XP or Vista. Earlier versions of Windows will not work, as they are incompatible with the College of Education's security mechanism.
• 56 Kbps modem (minimum). Cable modem, DSL connection, school/business LAN, or other high-speed network is strongly recommended; 56K users may have difficulty with audio and video resources.
• Internet provider for home access (must be subscribed prior to start of program)
• Sound card and a headset which combines microphone and speakers (a USB headset is recommended)
• We recommend the Mozilla Firefox browser (available for Mac and Windows) for the CTER program. Internet Explorer 6 or higher (Windows only) or Safari (both Mac and Windows) are also acceptable. If you are admitted to the program, we will send you a CD with the latest version of Firefox. Any web resources that you create for your CTER courses will be expected to work on all major browsers (Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Safari) so you will probably need to become familiar with all three.
• Email software (Eudora, Outlook, Apple Mail, or similar)
• Ability to be online for a minimum of 20 hrs/week

Contact CTER Technical Support if you need help determining whether your computer will work with CTER courses.