What are the technology requirements for both Online and On ground students?

As a student at SCS, the following is a list of technology tools and resources that are recommended for your academic success.

Computer

1. Mac or PC: Regardless of your preference for Microsoft or Apple, there are a few things to consider when purchasing a computer for academic use.
   1. Portability: The ability to take your computer on the go, bring it to class or at a local library are huge benefits for any students.
   2. Keyboard: There are a lot of great deals on tablets and iPads. If you chose to go this route, you will still need a keyboard for typing papers.
   3. Web Camera: Online communication with professors is a part of our online courses, but also available for our on ground students.
   4. Microphone / Headset: Although most new computers have a built in microphone, a headset is better for video chat or on online discussion. The use of a headset prevents unwanted audio-feedback that can occur when using the computer’s built-in speakers.
   5. Recommended specifications:

Processor: Intel i-Series (i3, i5, i7) or equivalent
Memory: 8 GB RAM
Hard Drive: 250 GB or higher
Video: 512 MB or higher
Wireless Card:
· IEEE 802.11ac WLAN NIC
· 2.4 GHz/5GHz Dual Band
· 3×3 1300 Mbps. (20/40/80MHz)
· WPA2-PSK/WPA2-Enterpirse
Recommended Operating System
Windows 7/8 or newer
Mac OS X 10.9 or newer

Software

Apple’s suite of tools, MS Office 365, and Google Docs are all available at no cost and below are the specifics of specific programs students will need within each suite.

1. Word Processor: MS Word, Google Docs, or Apple Pages.
2. Presentation Software: Apple Keynote, MS PowerPoint, Google Slides or Prezi.
3. Bibliographic Software: EasyBib.com or EndNote are two examples.
4. Note Taking:  Evernote, Apple Notes, or Microsoft’s OneNote

Peripherals

1. Printer: Access to printing is important for all students so they can print papers to both proofread and keep a physical archive. A printer is also helpful for reading ebooks or other source materials when away from the computer.

Skills

1. Populi: Populi is the online learning platform SCS uses for all of our students, both online and on ground.  Populi serves a variety of purposes, allowing professors to make announcements, post assignments, and interact with students. Students will use Populi to submit coursework, complete online tests, and interact with classmates.
2. Video Conferencing: All of our classes are available to our online students in either video archive or in most cases life video during the lecture. We use Zoom technology to equip our students to fully engage in high quality online learning.
3. Video Recording: Some of our courses integrate the opportunity for students to do video assignments. Students are encouraged to use YouTube or Vimeo to upload their assignments.