WashingtonOnline

Technical and Skills Requirements

Skills Requirements

Before you take an online class, you should be confident about your computer and study skills. Review the following list of requirements to assess your readiness to take online classes.

  • I know how to connect to the Web using a web browser.
  • I can navigate around the Web and know how to use search engines.

- If not, visit http://searchenginewatch.com/facts/index.html for tips

  • I know how to send and receive e-mail using the e-mail system of my choice.

- New to e-mail? Visit http://www.albion.com/netiquette for tips.

  • I know how to do basic word processing, including cutting and pasting.
  • I know how to open, save, and manage files.
  • I have access to a computer 5-7 days per week.
  • The computer I will use meets the basic requirements for online classes.
  • I have 12 to 15 hours a week to work on each online class.
  • I can motivate myself to log in to the virtual classroom at least 5 days a week.
  • I have good reading comprehension and written communication skills, and I enjoy communicating in writing.
  • I enjoy figuring things out on my own but am able to ask for help when I need it.

If you can't answer "Yes" to all these questions, you may not be quite ready for online learning. Visit Is Online Learning for Me to learn more and read more Tips for Web Learners.

System Requirements

ANGEL is designed to support the widest variety of client-side operating systems and client-side browsers through its limited use of client-side technologies. While ANGEL products generally function well in many browsers, the following are formally supported and tested:

  • Microsoft Windows XP, Microsoft Windows Vista, or Macintosh OS X
  • Microsoft Internet Explorer (7 or higher) or Mozilla Firefox (2 or higher)
  • Note: ANGEL supports browsers that are at least 90 days out from their release date. If the version you are using is not at least 90 days old, please revert back to an older version.

  • Java Runtime Environment 1.4 or higher
  • JavaScript and AJAX enabled; Pop-Up blocking disabled
  • Presenters (LIVE – Desktop Sharing Presenter Mode) must use a Windows Operating System

ANGEL Learning only tests and supports operating systems and browsers supported by its vendors. Major new releases of browsers are supported within 90 days of their release, excluding beta releases.

Virus Protection

Visit our Computer Virus Information page to learn more
Computer viruses can cause damage to your computer and the files stored in it. If you send a file with a virus to someone else in your class, that person's computer may become "infected" as well. Anti-virus software is available to help protect your computer. You can find both a free version and a full commercial version by visiting http://www.mcafee.com

Computer and Internet Access

You will need access to a computer and the Internet 5 out of 7 days a week for a total of 12 or more hours a week for each five-credit class. You can use more than one computer (home, work, and school).

For a list of Internet Service Providers visit http://thelist.internet.com/ or use our online Directory of Learning Centers to find places near you that provide computer access.

Monday - Friday, 8am - 5 pm (Pacific Standard Time)

Toll Free: 1-888-580-9011  Spokane Area: 1-509-434-5155   |   E-mail: wa-online@sbctc.edu