Computer & Internet Requirements

Students in this course utilize computers to solve communication and design problems using a graphic, audio, and animation components.

Reliable Internet Access

First and foremost, you will need a way to access the internet. The ability to access the internet is paramount to being successful in this class. Be sure your internet connection is strong and updated. Talk to your internet provider to make sure your connection is updated and is in working order. If your internet goes out you will need to locate Wi-Fi "hot spots" to keep working. Wi-Fi hotspots in coffee shops, libraries, airports, hotels, universities, and other public places are convenient, but often they’re not secure. If you connect to a Wi-Fi network and send information through websites or mobile apps, it might be accessed by someone else. 

Up-to-Date Browser

An up-to-date browser; Safari, FireFox, or Chrome

Back-up Storage

Portable drive, high capacity USB flash drive or portable hard drive or cloud storage for storage and back-ups

Computer

Please keep in mind, the software can take up a lot of memory on your computer. Your computer must be able to support installing Adobe Creative Cloud (hardware requirements Links to an external site.). So check your computer's specifications Links to an external site. so the software can run smoothly on your computer. 

Please note that CANVAS has an app for Apple and Android devices, but you will only be able to read, watch the lecture content and check your grades. You will not be able to create content for your assignments on your phone.

Many places have student discounts. College Buys Links to an external site. provides great student discounts on a variety of college hardware, software and other related needs for school. Apple, HP, Dell, Levono and similar companies may as well. Some require verification usually with a school email. Since your school email ends in a .us you may need to contact them directly regarding the discount. Also, check out in-store promotions and online sales at Walmart, Best Buy and Costco for the best deal.

Is Your Computer Ready?

The Computer Readiness Test Links to an external site. will test your computer and provide information about whether you have particular plug-ins installed, and if so, which versions. Note that results may vary by browser, as different web browsers support different plug-ins. Try running the test in different browsers (e.g., Firefox, Chrome, Safari, Internet Explorer, Edge) and compare the results. Are they the same or different? 

To proceed through the modules, you can use the Next button, which is always located near the lower right hand corner of the page.