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Learning Basics
A great starting place is the distance learning section of the SIRLS website. Virtual
Classes
Virtual
classes at SIRLS are taught using one of two online learning
environments: WebCT or Desire2Learn (D2L). Typically, the
professor will post their "notes" once a week (the equivalent
to lecture), with lists of the reading assignments to accompany
the notes. There is often a discussion/participationrequirement,
which is done either in the built-in chat rooms, or through
the bulletin boards (sometimes both). As in live classes,
the assignments are a mixture of essays, quizzes, papers,
and/or group projects, depending on the class, and the professor.
Group projects, essays, papers, etc. must typically be submitted
in HTML format. Computing
Equipment
Required: A
reliable computer
Internet
access and a Web browser such as Internet Explorer,
Mozilla Firefox, or Opera. [America Online users
may need to open a separate Internet browser to
properly navigate the required learning environment
software and UA Library databases.]
Word
processing software such as Microsoft Word or
Corel Wordperfect.
Web
editing software such as Macromedia Dreamweaver,
Netscape/Mozilla Composer, or Microsoft Frontpage.
If you are new to HTML, either Composer is the easiest
to learn and comes bundled free with either Netscape
or Mozilla. Dreamweaver, however, is the industry
standard and is most commonly used in library environments.
The educational version (at a lower cost) is available
at the UA bookstore or through Gradware.com.
Recommended: Microsoft
PowerPoint for creating presentations.
Photo
editing software such as Paint Shop Pro or Photoshop.
Antivirus
software, such as Norton, McAfee, or Trend Micro.
Spyware/Adware
protection such as Ad-Aware.
High
Speed Internet access.
Optional: Spreadsheet
software such as Microsoft Excel
Database
software such as Microsoft Access
Back-up
computer access in case yours goes on the fritz
For many of us, there is a steep technological learning curve. The more you can do to get comfortable with your computer, the Internet, and composing HTML, before you start classes, the better off you will be. When you run into problems, don't hesitate to ask your GAT or classmates for help. Summer
or weekend lodging
The
Distant Echo
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