General Technical Questions

What technology do I need?

To take online courses with MVCC, you should have access to a computer with a high speed, broadband or DSL internet connection. Dial-up connections are not recommended, due to the nature of downloading and viewing rich media. You should also be using an internet browser that is supported by the BLACKBOARD Learning Management System or the LMS used by your campus.

Firewalls and Internet Access

If you will be using a computer connected to a LAN (Local Area Network) at your workplace, check with your employer's network administrator to determine whether there is a firewall on the Internet connection. A firewall may limit your ability to submit the type of forms the MVCC web site uses. If you are using a computer lab on campus or at a library, the network may have a firewall or a block on users sending information to an external web site. Similar problems have been reported by students using a campus dial-up connection. Check with the campus technical support staff to make sure you have the appropriate Internet access and will be able to submit forms to an external web site.

Blackboard LMS Browser Compatibility

Blackboard is designed to support the widest variety of client-side operating systems and client-side browsers through its limited use of client-side technologies. While Blackboard products generally function well in many browsers, not all web browsers are formally supported by Blackboard.

To find out which browser version you should be using when working with Blackboard, please check the SLN Knowledge Base article on Browser Compatibility.

Due to current browser requirements, the use of mobile devices such as smartphones, e-readers, and tablets is not recommended.

Although you may be able to access the MVCC web site and/or your courses using a computer system that does not meet the minimum requirements, you may encounter limitations to your participation in the MVCC courses.

Do I have to be an experienced Internet or computer user to take MVCC courses?

Although you do not have to be an expert, you must have basic computer skills, such as word processing and some experience using the Internet. MVCC recommends signing on with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) a few months before the semester begins in order to give you time to practice accessing the Internet.

Who will help me connect to the Internet or to the MVCC?

If you are connecting with your own computer from your home, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is responsible for helping you configure your computer system so that you can connect to the Internet. If you are using campus-based computers or internet connections, your campus should be able to assist you with connecting to the Internet. Libraries and public access computers have their own help service, and should be able to assist you with logging on and accessing your online course.

What if I plan to use more than one computer to access my course?

Each computer you are planning to use needs to meet the minimum Technical Requirements.

What do I do if I can't access my course?

If you experience any difficulties with getting access to your campus online course, sending assignments, or any other technical support issues, contact the MVCC HelpDesk.

How do I clear web browser cache and cookies?

To review details how to clear the temporary internet files or 'cache' and cookies from an MVCC-supported web browser, please visit the MVCC Services knowledgebase pag: How to Clear web browser cache and cookies.

Do I need special software to take online classes?

The software that MVCC uses for online learning varies.  However, they all have one thing in common - online learning at MVCC  is browser-based. This means that you access your course through your internet connection using a standard web browser. You may need to download the most compatible version of the browser for your campus system. The most important thing is that you have a good connection to the internet.

Some instructors require students to use special software related to their course. This information should be provided to you after you register.