Internet/Equipment Information

1. What hardware and software will I need?

    Minimum Requirements

    For IBM compatible:

    Windows 98SE
    64 Megs of RAM
    56k modem or better
    233 MHz CPU Processor Speed
    256 Color Monitor/Graphics Card
    800x600 Video Resolution

    		For Macintosh:

    Mac OSX v10.1.5
    128 Megs of RAM
    56k modem or better
    PowerPC G3 CPU

    Recommended Requirements

    For IBM compatible:

    Windows XP
    128 MB RAM Memory
    High-Speed Internet Connection
    1 GHZ CPU Processor Speed
    32bit color Monitor/Graphics Card
    1024x768 Video resolution

    		For Macintosh:

    Mac OSX 10.3
    128 MB RAM Memory
    High-Speed Internet Connection
    PowerPC G4 or Greater

NOTE: Run the Rio Salado Tech Check to ensure that your computer is ready for an online class.

    Common Needs for Both Platforms

  • PC Users: Internet Explorer 6 SP1 or higher. For a free Internet Explorer download, go to http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/downloads/ie6/default.asp
  • Mac Users: Internet Explorer 5.2.3. For a free download, go to http://www.microsoft.com/mac/downloads.aspx?pid=download&location=/mac/DOWNLOAD/IE/ie5_osx.xml
  • A reliable Internet Service Provider
  • Antivirus software that is consistently updated against the latest threats
  • Pop-up blockers either disabled during coursework or configured to allow pop-ups from riosalado.edu and riosalado.edu
  • Firewalls either disabled during coursework or configured to fully trust riosalado.edu and riosalado.edu
  • Sun Java Virtual Machine 1.4 or greater. Test your computer by going to http://java.com/en/download/help/testvm.xml
  • Additionally, you will need to have access to our web-based email system to send and receive e-mail messages, to participate in group discussions, and to post or send assignments. Some corporate networks block web-based email for security reasons.

    NOTE: Once you have accessed your email account, it is very important that you send a message to your instructor letting him/her know that you are able to send and receive email.


2. How do I get access to online courses?

  • You will be responsible for obtaining your own Internet Service Provider.

  • The provider cost is an additional cost; it is not included in the cost of the class.

3. Do I need to be a proficient Internet user to take this course?
  • No, but you may experience the usual growing pains or "learning curve" that accompanies learning something new.

  • Be patient and don't be afraid to ask for assistance.

  • You should know basic word processing, how to send and receive mail, how to file and retrieve documents, and how to follow links on the WWW.

  • Additionally, when you access your class, you will have a course orientation manual available to you online.
4. How do I get assistance when I am having a problem?

Course Information

1. Is everything I need on the Internet or will I need to purchase a text or other materials? If so, how do I go about obtaining the materials?

  • Most of the classes require textbooks.

  • Some classes require lab kits, study aids, DVD's, video tapes, and audio tapes.

  • The cost of textbooks and some supplemental materials are additional; this is not part of the cost of class.

  • An online syllabus explains what you need and how/where you can get the items. You can preview course availability and a mini-syllabus for Rio Salado courses by visiting our online class schedule.

  • Textbook Information is included in your course syllabus.

2. How are assignments handled? By mail? By fax? On the Internet?

  • Most assignments will be handled via e-mail - using Rio's online email system.

  • Each class will provide specific directions on how to submit assignments.

3. Will the same material be covered in the Internet class as in a "regular" class?

  • Yes, the content of the classes is identical; it is only the mode of delivery that is different.

4. Are there specific deadlines/timelines that I will need to meet?

  • " Timelines will vary according to each class. Depending on which online course delivery system your course uses, the due dates for your assignments will either be an Assignment List link on the left hand menu when you first enter your class from the Course Homepage or in a due date box on the Course Homepage itself.

5. Will I be taking any exams, and how will I do that?

  • Yes. Exams are taken online in a proctored environment. For recorded information, call (480) 517-8558, or to speak with a Testing Center technician, call (480) 517-8560 or 1-(866) 517-8560 (Toll-free).

  • Testing Information can be found in your Syllabus or in Testing Services.

  • When proctors are needed for in-person exams for non-local students, contact the Rio Testing Center at (480) 517-8560 or 1-(866) 517-8560 (Toll-free).
6. How much will this class cost?

Support Information And Communication

1. Will counselors and advisors be available on the Internet?

2. Does Rio Salado have a 1-800 number for out-of-state students?

  • Yes, 1-800-729-1197 may be used for calls from outside area code 480; this is a dial-in line to ask questions, it is not a computer line.

3. How do I communicate with my instructor?

  • You will be using Rio's online email system.