Technology Requirements

For an optimized learning experience in this course, please ensure you have access to the following technology:

Student-provided personal computer.
- A screen size suitable for working with GIS software (i.e., after space used by a top and side toolbar, there is still room to see and pan around the map).
Reliable Internet access. Cellphone data connections may experience connection problems. Although you will do your labs by connecting to a server, the heaviest bandwidth use in the course is likely to be the streaming video presentations. If your internet connection can support these, you will generally be okay.
Android and iOS operating systems are not fully supported at this time. Mobile phones and tablet screens are usually too small for the labs. A few previous students have used Chromebooks; we got it to work, but everyone agreed it was questionably worth the headaches to set up.

Students who need assistive technologies might have different computer and technology requirements. Please check with Student Accessibility Services to determine the requirements for the specific technologies needed to support you in your online classes.

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Course Technologies

This course uses Canvas as the learning management system. Visit the Canvas guide to view the terms of service, privacy policy, accessibility statement, and steps for getting started with Canvas.
This course will use Remote Desktop Protocol for connecting to a Windows environment server. This enables all students, regardless of the personal computer's operating system, to access the licensed software and computing power of the server. Please read the RDP instructions and verify you can connect successfully before the first day of class.

Looking for assistance with the technologies listed above?

The university provides general support for issues with Canvas: https://www.elo.iastate.edu/online-orientation/tech-support/canvas/

For Remote Desktop and the specialized software used in this course, your course instructors will be the best resource. The easiest way to troubleshoot software issues is either in-person or by virtual meeting where the instructor can share your screen. However, you can also email the instructor at 2700help@iastate.edu. If you choose to email, please consider including a screenshot to assist the instructor in understanding the problem and efficiently providing possible solutions.

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