UW-Eau Claire online courses are taught using Desire2Learn. D2L is a web-based learning environment that is used for content delivery, discussions, assignments, and serve as a gateway to additional course resources and materials. For more information, see the WBLS page .

Recommended Hardware*

If your computer was purchased new within the past three years, it is likely to meet the minimum requirements.

For a Windows platform you'll need:

• Windows 95, 98, ME, 2000 or XP
• 200 MHz or faster processor
• 64 or more megabytes of RAM
• Sound card and speakers
• CD-ROM drive
• Monitor capable of 16-bit color or better
• Minimum 33.6K modem

For a Macintosh you'll need:

• MacOS 8.x, 9.x, or 10.1
• 150-MHz CPU, PowerPC or better
• 64 or more megabytes of RAM
• Speakers
• CD-ROM drive
• Monitor capable of "thousands of colors" or better
• Minimum 33.6K modem

* Some courses may have additional requirements.

Internet Connection

To access and interact with your course you will need an Internet Service connection. If you do not already have access to the Internet, you will need to get an Internet Service Provider (ISP). If you are in the Eau Claire area, you can consider using the University modem pool but you will be better served with a dedicated ISP. Charter Communications provides discounted cable modem access. TheList.Com publishes a list of ISPs. Before you commit to an ISP, compare services and prices.

Software

Web browser

• PC: Netscape Communicator Explorer 5.01 or later
• If you are an AOL member, please upgrade to version 5.0 or later.
• Please note: Netscape 6.0 is incompatible with all courses.
• Macintosh: Netscape Communicator ver. 4.76 (NOT Netscape 4.77 or 6.x)* or Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.01 or later
• If you are an AOL member, please upgrade to version 5.0.
• Please note: Netscape 6.0 is incompatible with all courses.

Web browser plug-ins

• Adobe Acrobat (Download Information)
• Text editor (a word processor or Notepad/SimpleText)
• Sound player program (often comes with the sound card for your computer)
• Connection to Internet and e-mail capabilities
• AOL users (versions 5.0 or 6.0 are the only versions of AOL software compatible with all courses. Please contact AOL to upgrade to either version before taking the course).

Microsoft Office

UW-System has negotiated special pricing for degree-seeking students with Microsoft and other software publishers. (e.g., Office XP is only $35). For additional information, see the WISC Software or the LTS Helpdesk.