Tech Requirements

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Tech Requirements | Browsers | Global Campus Learning | Course Access | Netiquette | Textbook

Technology Requirements

The following are the minimum technology requirements currently required to be successful in all classes. We understand you may only have access to some older systems. However, if you have less than these minimum requirements we may not be able to provide you with adequate support to solve all the problems that may arise.

Requirement All Students College of Technology Students Explanation
Internet At least 3Mbps of broadband internet required (10Mbps or higher recommended) Same Audio and video will perform better over a faster connection.
Operating System

Windows 10 (or newer) or MacOS 13 (Ventura) (or newer)

Chromebooks do not meet the minimum requirements

Same Use an up-to-date Windows or Mac operating system for compatibility with software.
RAM

8GB RAM (or higher)

16GB RAM (32GB recommended) More memory ensures smooth performance, especially when running multiple applications, including video conferencing with multiple tabs open in your browser.
Processor

Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 or higher processor (minimum 4 cores)

Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 or higher processor (minimum 8 cores) Faster processors handle tasks efficiently, especially for tech-heavy programs.
Webcam & Microphone

Functioning webcam and microphone

Same Necessary for video calls, Livestream classes, and presentations.
Audio

Speakers or headset

Same You’ll need these for listening during virtual classes or meetings.

Software Requirements

Microsoft Office 2016 or newer: Microsoft Office 365

Adobe Acrobat Reader (latest version)

Same

Software applications considered standard at Davenport University

Work submitted in other formats such as Word Perfect or Open Office will not be accepted.

Browsers

Most primary browsers support DU technology but must be kept up to-date

Browsers

Compatibility Checks

Microsoft Edge (latest version) *Recommended for use with Class

Blackboard Operating System Compatibility

Google Chrome (latest version) *Recommended for use with Class

 

Mozilla Firefox (latest version) *not compatable with Class

 
Safari (Mac Only)

Test Your Browser - Is it Compatible?

Global Campus Learning

It is recommended that students who are taking Global Campus courses have their own personal computer with a reliable internet connection to be able to access their courses. 

Davenport does not accept individual technology issues or internet access as a reason for late work in online classes. Be sure to have a backup plan in case of unexpected glitches, viruses, or inaccessibility. Libraries, campuses, any wireless access point, friends, and family are frequently used alternatives.

Alternate sources for a personal computer can include: Recommended minimum set of computer skills:
A friend Send and receive emails
Family Member Work with Microsoft Word
Public Library Work with files and folders
Computer space on your local campus Copy and paste items
  Use and navigate the internet

You can test your basic computer skills with the Basic Technology Quiz

Blackboard Course Access Policy

Students will receive access to their courses in Blackboard three days before the course starts.

Access to Global Campus courses is only available for one semester after the course has ended. There are several reasons for this; however, the main one is the reduce the amount of data stored on the server to allow for better maneuverability within active courses for students and faculty. Davenport is not able to open access to previous courses. Please plan accordingly.

Netiquette

  • Online Behavior

    • Distribution or selling of any student or faculty email address is prohibited
    • No flaming (rash, vulgar, aggressive put-downs) is tolerated
    • When chatting in student areas or chat rooms casual use of language is appropriate
    • When debating and contributing to course discussions formal grammar, correct spelling, and sentence structure is expected
    • Keep caps lock off. The effect looks like shouting to the reader
    • Any violation of the University's anti-harassment policy through the use of student email. University electronic classrooms, and student instant messaging is strictly prohibited and should be reported to an instructor and/or academic advisor
  • Respect for Others

    • In the collegial environment, debate and discussion are a part of our learning. Make sure that your comments are focused on the content, not the individual who contributed them. Treat others with the respect you would want from them.

Text Book Policies

All students must have textbooks by Week 1 Day 7. No exceptions and no accommodations will be made by faculty after this date. In extreme situations, where there is delay in the shipping or procurement of materials, faculty will make reasonable accommodations during the first week of class only. The only exception to this policy is the backorder of texts from the University online bookstore.

Due to copyright laws, sections of the text, other than materials authorized by the publisher such as Power Points, problem solutions, etc., cannot be scanned and posted to the classroom or emailed by either the faculty or students.

Please note: Davenport will provide reasonable accommodations upon request to ensure equal access to University educational services and resources. Please see our ADA Accommodations page for more information.