Disclaimer
Technology requirements for online learning may change as software vendors update their products and supported operating systems. Students are encouraged to keep their devices, browsers, and applications updated to the latest supported versions whenever possible.
Are Online Courses Right for You?
Online and Technology-Enhanced Courses
Northeast State offers many courses online, along with traditional courses that use web-based tools and digital resources to support instruction. Most online courses use Brightspace (D2L) as the college learning management system.
Students access Brightspace through the MyNE Dashboard by visiting:
https://www.northeaststate.edu
Select My Northeast to log in and access Brightspace, student email, Self-Service, and other campus resources.
Course Availability
Online courses follow the same academic calendar and semester schedule as on-campus courses. Students enrolled in online classes should have regular access to a reliable computer and internet connection.
If your course includes a required orientation or scheduled meeting times, your instructor will provide additional information.
Onsite or In-Person Requirements
Some online or hybrid courses may require onsite testing, labs, clinical experiences, or other in-person activities. Students should review their course syllabus carefully and contact the instructor if they have questions about attendance requirements.
Technology Requirements for Online Learning
Successful participation in online courses requires dependable technology access and basic computer skills.
Recommended Computer Requirements
- Windows 10 or Windows 11, or a current version of macOS
- Intel i3 processor or higher (or equivalent)
- 8 GB RAM or greater recommended
- Reliable broadband internet connection
- Webcam and microphone for Zoom meetings and online testing
- Updated web browser such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox
- Microsoft Office or Microsoft 365 for coursework and assignments
Mobile devices and tablets may work for some course activities, but a desktop or laptop computer is strongly recommended for tests, assignments, and multimedia coursework.
1. Brightspace (D2L) Browser Support
Brightspace is designed to work best with current versions of modern web browsers.
| Browser | Supported Version |
|---|---|
| Google Chrome | Latest stable version |
| Mozilla Firefox | Latest stable version and ESR |
| Microsoft Edge | Latest stable version |
| Apple Safari | Latest stable version |
Important: Internet Explorer is no longer supported by Brightspace.
Check your browser compatibility at:
Browser Tips
- Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox are recommended.
- Keep your browser updated to the latest version.
- Clear your browser cache if pages do not load correctly.
- Disable popup blockers for Brightspace when necessary.
- Try a different browser if you experience loading or login problems.
2. Mobile and Tablet Support
Brightspace supports current mobile operating systems and browsers on phones and tablets.
| Device Type | Supported Browsers |
|---|---|
| Android Devices | Chrome |
| Apple iPhone/iPad | Safari |
| Windows Devices | Edge, Chrome, Firefox |
While many course activities work on mobile devices, some assignments, quizzes, proctored tests, and external applications may require a desktop or laptop computer.
3. Zoom Requirements
Zoom may be used for virtual classes, office hours, tutoring, advising, and meetings.
Basic Requirements
- Broadband internet connection
- Speakers or headphones
- Microphone
- Webcam recommended
Supported Operating Systems
- Windows 10 or newer
- Current supported versions of macOS
- Supported Linux distributions
- iOS and Android mobile devices
For the latest Zoom system requirements, visit:
4. YuJa Video Platform
YuJa is used for lecture recordings, video assignments, and course media content.
Recommended Requirements
- Current version of Windows or macOS
- Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox recommended
- Broadband internet connection
- Webcam and microphone for recording assignments
A stable internet connection is especially important when uploading or streaming video content.
Additional support information is available at:
5. Respondus LockDown Browser
Some instructors may require Respondus LockDown Browser for online quizzes and exams.
Windows Requirements
- Windows 10 or Windows 11
- Minimum 2 GB RAM
- Approximately 200 MB available disk space
Mac Requirements
- macOS 10.15 or newer
- Minimum 2 GB RAM
- Approximately 200 MB available disk space
Chromebooks and iPads are supported only in certain situations and may not work with all exams or monitoring features.
More information:
Respondus LockDown Browser Requirements
6. Honorlock Online Proctoring
Some online courses may use Honorlock for remote proctoring during exams.
Minimum Requirements
- Windows or macOS computer
- Current version of Google Chrome
- Webcam and microphone
- Stable broadband internet connection
Honorlock does not support all mobile devices for testing.
More information:
Additional Recommendations for Student Success
- Use a reliable broadband internet connection whenever possible.
- Save copies of important assignments and coursework.
- Keep your operating system, browser, and antivirus software updated.
- Learn how to download, upload, and attach files.
- Check your Northeast State email and Brightspace course announcements regularly.
- Plan ahead and avoid waiting until the last minute to complete assignments or tests.
- Become familiar with Microsoft Word and Microsoft 365 tools commonly used in online courses.
- Practice good online communication and digital etiquette.
If you need assistance with Brightspace (D2L) or online learning technologies, please contact:
Michael Collins
Office of Academic Computing
423-212-3552
mwcollins@northeaststate.edu
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