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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: Your browser must always be up-to-date. Firefox or Chrome is recommended for all Moodle functions, especially watching lectures online.
  • 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 
    Operating System

    Windows 10 or WIndows 11

    OS X 10.12 or higher
    Java Most recent version Most recent version
  • Internet:
    • Bandwidth: the recommended requirement is 5 Mbps; anything less will cause potential issues. Use this link to check your speed.
    • Streaming services: Sites or applications that use the Internet, like YouTube, Netflix, P2P, Spotify, or Pandora, must be closed before starting a Zoom session.
    • Connection: You must be connected to the Internet via an ethernet cable or Wi-Fi. Hotspots do not have the bandwidth to handle Zoom sessions.
    • Wi-Fi: Be as close to the router access point as possible to get the best connection. Be aware that locations with free Wi-Fi, i.e., Starbucks or Barnes & Noble, cannot provide enough bandwidth for Zoom sessions and should not be used.

  • Additional Needs:

    • Audio and Video: Your audio and video need to be checked before starting your session in your computer settings. Check volume levels for microphones and test the webcam for video streaming.
    • Headset/Headphones: Headphones with an attached microphone are best for hearing and corresponding in the chat. If not available, the user must find a quiet space where there will not be audio interference. (Starbucks, Barnes & Noble, etc., are not appropriate)
    • Zoom Requirements: To find more information about the system requirements for Zoom, please see this link: Zoom Requirements

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.

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