Technology

Requirements

All students use technology throughout their time at PLTS. The following are tools, requirements, and specifications for all residential and distributed learning students:

• Learning Management System: Moodle is designed to require basic web browsing skills.
• Browser Capability: Firefox or Chrome is recommended for all Moodle functions, especially watching lectures online.  Safari is not compatible with Moodle.
• Learning Tools: VoiceThread and Panopto allow for course sharing of images, videos, presentations, and related media.  VoiceThread requires some skill and plenty of web-based support is available.  
• Synchronous Contact: Zoom is a synchronous platform used for some course interactions and conferencing.  Zoom requires some skill and plenty of web-based support is available.   
• Minimum Computer Requirements:
  
  

  	Windows	Mac OS X
  Operating System	Windows 7 Windows 8 Windows 10	OS X 10.8 OS X 10.9 OS X 10.10 OS X 10.11
  Processor	3.0 GHz or higher	3.0 GHz or higher
  RAM	4 GB or higher	4 GB or higher
  Java	Most recent version	Most recent version

• Accessories: Webcam, speakers and microphone (or headset).
• Internet:
  

  Bandwidth	Recommended requirement is 50 Mbps; anything less could cause potential issues with lagging during Live Chat sessions.  Use the following link to check you speed.  Click here: http://speedof.me
  Streaming	Sites or applications that use the internet like YouTube, Netflix, P2P, Spotify, or Pandora should be closed before starting your session.
  Connection	You must be connected to the internet via an Ethernet cable or WiFi.   Hotspots do not have the bandwidth to handle chat sessions
  WiFi	Be as close to the router or access point as possible to get the best connection.  Be aware that locations with free WiFi, i.e. Starbucks or Barnes & Noble, cannot provide enough bandwidth for chat sessions and should not be used.

• Recommended Software:
  • Accordance Bible software (you have options for discount purchasing)
  • Anti-virus software (available through Cal Lutheran ITS)
  • Adobe Reader
  • Adobe Flash Player
  • Microsoft Office (available to students for free through Cal Lutheran ITS)
  • Windows Media Player or QuickTime (optional)
  • Zotero (for help with citations)

Wireless Internet Access on Campus

The PLTS campus is covered by wireless internet. Wireless internet is accessible in all classrooms and common areas.  

Computer Lab

Computers are available for seminarians in the campus Student Lounge.  Free printing is available via the copier in the Work Room.