Setting Up Your Computer

All A-B Tech online courses are taught through Moodle. The Moodle Orientation course is designed to give students the skills necessary to navigate through an online course in the Moodle learning management system. Students will learn how to submit assignments and quizzes, participate in forums, communicate with the instructor, and check grades.

Personal Capability Requirements

To be successful in taking online courses, students should:

Be able to perform basic computer operations such as:

  • Copying, saving, moving, and deleting files on your computer
  • Knowledge of common computing terms
  • Familiarity with the operating system environment
  • Installing new software
  • Using a web browser such as Firefox, Chrome, or Internet Explorer
  • Using word processing software such as Microsoft Word
  • Using email for communication and to exchange files

  • Students taking an online course should be proficient with basic computer tasks.

Ability to download and install computer programs such as:

  • Adobe Reader
  • Adobe Shockwave
  • Java
  • Software programs specific to coursework
  • World Wide Web
  • Basic knowledge of various browsers, ie. Internet Explorer, Chrome, Firefox
  • Navigating the web
  • Conducting information searches on the web

Have access to:

  • A computer with Internet connection (or be able to come to campus computer labs)
  • Email. A-B Tech Community College provides student email accounts to all curriculum students. It is recommended that the A-B Tech email be used for all communication with instructors.
  • Required software. This will vary by course - check with your instructor. Nearly all courses will require common software such as browser software (Firefox or Chrome) and word processing software (Microsoft Word)

Note: While even very old computers may be able to connect to the Internet, many machines more than three to four years old may not be able to run the required software. Check with your instructor if you think your computer may be unable to run the special software required for some courses.

 

Before taking an online course please review the technical information.

The following are the minimum system requirements to take an online course.

 

Hardware Requirements

  • A computer that has been purchased within the last five years.
  • Internet capable
    • Students taking online courses must have broadband Internet access at home or at a location where they can spend adequate time to complete online coursework. Broadband Internet access is defined by the FCC as at least 25 Mbps download, and 3 Mbps upload speed.
    • If you are unsure about Internet providers in your area, contact your local cable, telephone, or computer dealer for a list of reputable Internet service providers in your area.
  • Printer
  • Webcam
  • Microphone Headset

 

Software Requirements

The following are the minimum system requirements to take an online course.

 

Browser Requirements

  • The latest version of Safari, Chrome, or Firefox can be used.
  • Third-party cookies are allowed
  • JavaScript is enabled
  • Pop-up blocker is disabled

 

Use of Mobile Devices

Please note that at this time A-B Tech does not support mobile devices. Using a mobile device to complete assignments or quizzes could cause students problems with submitting these items. Mobile devices can be used to view assignments, and course notifications but when trying to complete a task in Moodle it is recommended that a computer be used for the completion of the task.

Important: Do Not Use The Following Browsers With Moodle:

  • Earlier versions of the browsers listed above