Online Learning Tech Requirements

Students must primarily use a desktop computer or laptop (Windows PC or Mac). Google Chromebooks are not fully compatible with some required software and therefore cannot be used for all online classes.

Compatible operating systems include:

Online classes cannot be completed on a smartphone or tablet, but they can be used as a secondary means of communication by using the Canvas Mobile App.

iPad users should download RLDB from the Apple App Store. Note: The instructor must have the option to allow an iPad to be used selected.

Be sure you have the latest version of your favorite web browser such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari or Edge. Internet Explorer is not supported. If you have trouble with one browser, try a different one.

High-speed/broadband access is required for most courses. Minimum Internet speed of 512kbps. 300 Kbps for presentations with one video stream, audio, PowerPoint and screen capture. 500 Kbps for presentations with multiple video streams.

Do not rely on public Wi-Fi or dial-up access. The use of public access Wi-Fi (for example, at restaurants or libraries) may result in slowness or errors.

If on a BHC Campus use the BHC Student Wi-Fi; the guest Wi-Fi is typically not enough. See Wi-Fi tab the Online Learning Orientations Tutorials BHC Students tab.

Word Processing Software

Most courses require word-processing such as MS Word and the ability to save files as .docx, .doc, .rtf or .pdf. BHC students can get MS Office for free. See how to download MS Office.

Canvas Mobile App

Again, do not rely on smartphones and tablets. They can be used as a secondary means of access to course materials but their functionality is limited. For Android, use version 8.0 or higher. For iOS, use version 15.0 or higher. See how to download the Canvas Mobile App.

Some courses will require a microphone to use with Panopto, Zoom.us or web proctoring (Respondus).

Some webcams and laptops have microphones already built in. If yours does not, you may need to purchase a webcam or microphone.

Headphone/earbuds/speakers for listening.

A webcam/camera capable of video conferencing or recording speeches (SPEC 101).

Note: For online completely sections of SPEC 101, students are required to record their speeches following requirements set by IAI. View requirements for the Online Completely SPEC 101 Course.

Most online courses will require you to take online tests that are monitored; these are known as “proctored exams.” Some online courses might give you the choice to take a proctored exam at a BHC Testing Center and/or via BHC’s web proctoring tools.

The first tool is Respondus LockDown Browser (RLDB) Use the following for installation instructions:

• PC users* click here to install RLDB
• Mac users click here to install RLDB

Personal Chromebook users follow these instructions to install RLDB:

1. Log in to the Chromebook start Google Chrome.
2. Log in to Canvas and navigate to the exam that requires LockDown Browser.
3. Select the link for downloading and installing LockDown Browser.
4. From the Chrome web store, select “Add to Chrome” to install the LockDown Browser Extension.

iPads do not currently work with Canvas’s New Quizzes tool. If your course is using the Canvas’ Classic Quizzes, iPad users would download RLDB from the Apple App Store. Note: The instructor must have the option to allow an iPad to be used selected.

If you are using a Chromebook managed by a high school or employer, hopefully they have already added the RLDB extension to your device. If not, and your course requires it, please send the LockDown Administrator Guide (PDF) to the person who manages the Chromebook devices.

* If using Windows S Mode, you must switch out of it or find an alternative; cannot switch S Mode back into.

The second tool is Respondus Monitor. Some courses require a test to be proctored via RLDB and Respondus Monitor. Please watch this video to learn more about Respondus Monitor.

Courses that are completely online might give you the choice to take a proctored test at a BHC Testing Center. [TODO: Add link to Testing Center page]

Respondus Monitor requires:

• Webcam with microphone.
• High-speed/broadband internet connection.
• Installation of BHC’s RLDB.
• Identification: You will be required to take a picture of your government-issued photo ID. Acceptable ID includes driver’s license or photo ID card. The ID must include your photo and name. (You may cover up personal information, e.g. driver’s license number, address, weight, height, etc.)

Note: As part of BHC’s agreement with Respondus, Respondus offers support to all of our users. Please go to our Online Learning Orientation Troubleshooting page for details about submitting a ticket to Respondus.