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Technical Requirements

Technical Requirements for Online Courses

While many Canvas features are accessible via mobile device and some coursework can be completed on phones or tablets, students enrolled in an online course must have regular access to a desktop or laptop computer with a reliable internet connection, as many instructional tools, assignments, and assessments are not fully compatible with mobile platforms.

Canvas Mobile App Features
Using the Canvas Student app on a mobile device, students can:

  • View announcements and course content
  • Participate in discussion boards and Tech Live sessions
  • Check grades and assignment feedback
  • Send and receive messages
  • View the calendar and due dates
  • Submit certain types of assignments (e.g., text entry or file uploads)
  • Watch videos and review course materials on the go

For the best experience and full access to all course components, it is recommended that students have a desktop or laptop computer that meets the following technical  requirements:

Connectivity

  • Internet Access: A computer capable of connecting to the Internet via high-speed service (DSL, cable, fiber).
  • Network Speed – download/upload 5 Mbps (minimum), 20 Mbps (recommended)

Hardware

  • Computer: A laptop or desktop running Windows or Mac OS.
  • Monitor Resolution: 1280×1024 or higher for best results.
  • Processor: At least 1GHz processor speed with a minimum of 4 GB RAM.
  • Audio: Speakers or a headset are needed for live sessions. A microphone is optional but recommended for active participation.
  • Webcam: Recommended for interactive sessions.

Note: For full functionality and access to all course components, a desktop or laptop is required.

Software

  • Operating System: Windows OS  or Mac OS.
  • PDF Reader: Adobe Acrobat Reader or another PDF reader.
  • Browser Settings: JavaScript must be enabled in your Internet browser.
  • Word Processing: A program that can save files in docx format. IT Services offers Office 365 free of charge for all current Indiana Tech students. Alternatives include LibreOffice, Google Docs, and Pages.

Recommended Internet Browsers

  • Chrome: Latest two versions (Recommended).
  • Firefox: Latest two versions (Recommended).
  • Edge: Latest two versions.

Other Supported Browsers with Known Issues

  • Safari: Latest two versions (Mac only).

For detailed information about Canvas browser and computer requirements, please visit the Canvas support site.

User Proficiencies

Computer and Operating System Skills

  • Uploading files from a personal computer to the web.
  • Downloading files and saving them to a computer or storage device.
  • Sending and receiving emails.
  • Using Microsoft Word and/or Excel to complete course assignments.
  • Identifying different file formats and their corresponding software applications.

Web Browsing Skills

  • Ability to use an internet browser.
  • Ability to identify and follow hyperlinks.
  • Ability to enter web addresses (URLs).
  • Ability to complete and submit online forms.

Technical Support

If you have questions or concerns about meeting the minimum technical or proficiency requirements listed above, please contact onlinesupport@indianatech.edu for assistance.

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