Technical Requirements

Post - BA Certificate in Child Advocacy ONLINE

Important CHAD
Online Program Technology Requirements

1.  You must have a computer with internet access to participate in this program. All class content—including class lectures, will posted and accessible via the internet through Blackboard Academic Suite. This content includes text, audio, and video files.

2.   You must have a basic proficiency with computers. Basic computer skills at a minimum means the ability to work in a Windows/Macintosh environment, utilize email, and navigate the internet. Any student, who in the sole discretion of the professor demonstrates a continuing inability to employ basic computer skills, may be removed from the online class. Access to MSU Information Technology help is available from the MSU website. The Child Advocacy Program will also have program specific technical support available in addition to the University’s Helpdesk.

3.   It is strongly encouraged that you have broadband internet access (e.g. Cable Modem, DSL, Satellite…). Dial-up services that use standard telephone lines (e.g. Standard AOL, Juno, Net Zero, and EarthLink) to connect may be insufficient to view all course content. Your local public library typically is a good source for free broadband access.

4. Your PC must be running Windows XP (or later) or Mac OS 10 for optimum performance. We cannot guarantee your success in this program with older operating systems. Your computer must have an audio card and a video card. Nearly every PC sold over the last five years will have both. It is suggested that you purchase a quality set of headphones to listen to the audio/video files. A good set of headphones may be purchased for $20-30 almost anywhere electronics are sold. While not mandatory they will make the listening experience more focused and personal, especially if you are using a public computer.

5. Your computer should have software capable of displaying Microsoft Word Documents, Adobe .PDF files, Flash, Java and Windows Media. Virtually all PCs either have these basic capabilities or can be modified easily and inexpensively, if not. The highlighted words above are links to the software downloads in the unlikely event that your PC does not have Adobe .PDF file, Flash, Java and Windows Media capabilities.

6. You can generally work at your own pace but all reading assignments must be completed in advance of listening to the audio lecture files. You must also be mindful of the mandatory due dates for modules. When in doubt about any scheduling in this course please consult the CLASS TOPICS AND DISCUSSION BOARD ASSIGNMENTS CALENDAR within this syllabus.