Technology Requirements - Online Learning | Westmoreland County Community College, Youngwood, Pennsylvania

Technology Requirements for Distance Learning Courses

Distance Learning courses are completed either fully online (Online), live via a web conferencing program, such as Zoom (Remote), or a combination of both (Hybrid). These courses use specific technology that students should ensure their system can handle before registering for classes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Technically, yes, but it is strongly recommended to have access to a desktop computer or laptop to ensure an optimal and successful experience.

Yes. Westmoreland students can purchase an HP Laptop with an internal camera for $499.99. For more information, contact the College Store, bookstoreFREEWESTMORELAND, 724-925-4174.

 

D2L

Desire2Learn (D2L) is the learning management system website used for all courses at Westmoreland.

Click the Check Your System Compatibility button below to confirm that your device and browser are compatible with D2L.

check your system compatibility

Technical issues that occur in D2L are often browser-related. To reduce the chance of technical issues, use the most recent versions of Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome web browsers.

Frequently Asked Question

Yes, and the app is called Pulse; however, its main function is keeping students informed of class due dates. It does not have the interactive features that are found when accessing D2L from a desktop or laptop.

 

Zoom

Zoom is the web-conferencing tool used primarily by remote, hybrid, and sometimes online courses at Westmoreland.

Click the Check Zoom System Requirements button below to confirm your device is capable of running Zoom.

check your system compatibility

Frequently Asked Question

Technically, no, but it is strongly recommended to have at least a working microphone.

 

Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor

Some courses at Westmoreland require Respondus LockDown Browser (LDB) and Monitor in an attempt to ensure academic integrity for online tests. LockDown Browser “locks down” a device so that only the necessary test can be completed, and Monitor uses a webcam to record the environment during test taking. A desktop computer or laptop and a webcam are required to run this software. Watch this video for a demonstration.

Click the Check LockDown Browser System Requirements button below to confirm your device is capable of running LockDown Browser and Monitor.

check LockDown browser system req.

Westmoreland County Community College permits students to use Respondus Monitor at an off-campus location, providing an agreed-upon location meets any and all college guidelines. If the location is a residence or personal environment, you agree to allow your activity and surrounding workspace to be recorded by video and audio and analyzed by the Respondus Monitor system.

Frequently Asked Questions

At Westmoreland, no. A Chromebook version exists; however, it is not active at Westmoreland for security purposes.

Computers across all Westmoreland locations are equipped with the necessary software and hardware to run LockDown Browser and Monitor.