Setting up your computer
Whether you are buying a computer
or already have access to a computer it is important that
you check the recommended hardware and software computing standards for USQ students.The requirements listed under 'USQConnect essential software' relate specifically to the USQStudyDesk.
The new 2008 USQStudyDesk is based on 'Moodle' which is an open-source Learning Management System (LMS) and does not require you to install any special software to access. Courses are regularly tested with a wide a range of computers and can be used with PC or Apple Mac. There are, however, a few things you need to check on your computer to make sure you can make the most of all aspects of online courses. Your computer will need:
1. A web browser
Browsers recommended by USQ are:
| Operating system |
Browser (minimum standard) |
| Windows |
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 with service pack 1,
Mozilla Firefox 2.0 |
| Macintosh |
Mozilla Firefox 2.0, Apple Safari 2.0 |
| Linux |
Mozilla Firefox 2.0 |
Windows users: Note a fully patched and updated version 5.5 will work in most instances but our recommendations are to upgrade to version 6.
2. Browser settings to be configured
You will also need to configure the following settings in your browser.
Disable your pop-up blocker
Some courses on USQStudyDesk use pop-up windows so you should disable pop-up blockers in your browser for the USQStudyDesk.
For information on how to
disable specific pop-up blocking software, contact the
ICT Service Desk on +61 7 4631 1900 or email usqconnect@usq.edu.au
Cookies
Cookies are small data files that a server places into a secure area on your computer. Your browser must have cookies enabled to use the USQStudyDesk. There is no security consideration as cookies do not interact directly with the computer, and they can be deleted automatically. You should read the Cookies section of your internet browser for help if you need to alter the cookie settings.
Javascript
Javascript may be necessary for some of the more interactive parts of your course. When your browser is installed Javascript may already be enabled.
As with Cookies, you can usually enable or disable Javascript in the settings or security options in your browser.
3. Additional software or plug-ins
Some of your course material may require you to have additional software or plug-ins. If you already have some of the software and plug-ins
installed, check your version to make sure it is the same
as the one listed in the requirements below. If you have an
older version of the software, uninstall that first. Only
install the programs you need.
Why do you need this software?
(Please note: Files for the following applications were included on your 2008 Toolkit CD.)
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Adobe Reader (v8.0)
Adobe Reader is free software that lets you view and print Portable
Document Format (PDF) files using a variety of platforms and devices.
PDF is a universal file format which retains all formatting and layout,
regardless of the application and platform used to create it. Some of
your course materials such as readings or slide hand-outs of lecture presentations, may be provided in PDF format.
Click
on this link. If you are able to open this PDF file, you already have
the Adobe Reader installed. If not, you can download the free Reader from the Adobe website.
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Adobe Flash Player (Latest version)
Flash Player is a plug-in for your web browser which allows
to display online content created using Flash such as animations,
movies, quizzes, puzzles, and streaming audio. At USQ, some
lecture presentations have also been converted from PowerPoint
to Macromedia Breeze. These presentations require a Flash-enabled
web browser for viewing.
If you can see the animation to the right,
you already have the Flash plug-in installed. If not, you can download the free Flash Player from the Adobe website. |
Other issues
If you still have problems using all elements of the USQStudyDesk after you have completed steps 1 to 3, your problem may be related
to your antivirus software or firewalls installed on your computer.
Certain anti-virus software has been known to block specific Internet
traffic. If your
computer or network is protected by a firewall this may also deny
access to communication tools.
Using a computer from an internet cafe or at work
If the computer is not your own personal computer, you may not have the administration rights to download and install software or change settings. This could cause a problem with Flash, Adobe, Javascript, for example. In this scenario, it is best to talk directly to the technical person responsible for the computer.
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