Technical Requirements

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Before you begin working through the course content, you need to make sure the computer you are using is configured properly for the multimedia that you will encounter. Below are specifications and tests to help make sure everything is in working order.

Note:

Access to a reliable Internet connection is required for this course. A problem with your Internet access may not be used as an excuse for late, missing, or incomplete coursework. If you experience problems with your Internet connection while working on this course, it is your responsibility to find an alternative Internet access point, such as a public library or WiFi hotspot.

Mixed Content

This site is considered a secure web site which means that your connection is encrypted. We do however link to content that isn't necessarily encrypted. This is called mixed content. By default, mixed content is blocked in Internet Explorer, Firefox and Chrome. This may result in a blank page or a message saying that only secure content is displayed. Follow the directions below to view the mixed content.

  • Firefox
    Click the shield icon to the left of the address bar.
    In the pop-up window, click the down arrow next to "Keep Blocking" and select "Disable Protection on This Page".
  • Chrome
    Click the shield icon to the right of the address bar.
    In the icon dialog box, click "Load anyway".
  • Internet Explorer
    Scroll to the bottom of the screen and click "Show all content".

Flash movies and QuickTime video

We have Flash movies and QuickTime video material in many of the lessons in this course. Chances are pretty good that you already use a Web browser that is configured to open up a QuickTime movie and play SWF (Flash) files, but to be safe, here is a "test" file (36 seconds) that you should try out now to make sure you won't have problems later in the course. If these files run smoothly for you, then you're ready to go. If you can't get the file below to play on your computer, then please refer to the steps at the bottom of this page to troubleshoot your problem.

Having trouble? Troubleshooting tips...

  • Step 1: Install a New Plugin. If you are not able to play the files, start by installing (or re-installing) the QuickTime plugins. The links here will take you to the respective download sites (and their accompanying directions.)
  • Step 2: Request Help. If you still have not had any success, then its time for you to contact the ITS Helpdesk. It is in your own best interest to be as specific as you possibly can. Vague descriptions of a problem only delay assistance. Try to include information such as:
    • Indicate the specific course page, quiz question, etc. you were on, what you attempted to do when that failed, and the exact language of any error message displayed on your screen
    • The date and time when your problem occurred
    • Any other pertinent information (does the problem happen consistently and always in the same way, etc.)

Browsers

Water and Society must be viewed using one of the following browsers: Firefox (any version), Safari (versions 5.1 or 6.0) or Internet Explorer with the MathPlayer Plugin. If you use any other browsers there will be pages that do not render properly.

Google Earth

You MAY be using Google Earth in a few of the modules. It is a very standard program that works on both Macs and PCs. Go to Google Earth and download the latest version for your computer. Later in the orientation, there is a tutorial to help familiarize you with the software.