Devices, Browsers, Software, & Apps

As an IVCC student, you probably have questions about what type of devices, browsers, software, and apps you may need for classes.  We hope you'll find this list useful.

Devices

  • For your primary device, you will need access to a Windows laptop or desktop computer, MacBook, or Chromebook with a webcam connected to the Internet 3-5 days per week.  Please see Software below to learn what free Microsoft 365 apps can be installed on certain devices.
  • You cannot use mobile devices or tablets for all course related items.  These are good secondary devices used to check email, announcements, and grades.  However, depending on the courseware publisher, you may not have access to the online assignments.
  • When taking an online test, it is important to have a stable connection.  Wired connections are better than wireless.
  • Visit Campus Technology to see what computers are available for use while on campus.

Browsers

  • Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari are reliable web browsers.
  • Always have at least two browsers available.  For example, if you are using Safari and an interactive assignment does not fully display, try using Google Chrome.
  • To learn about Brightspace and its supported operating systems with the latest browsers, visit Brightspace Browser Support.
  • Clearing the cache and cookies in your browser can fix certain issues on a website, like formatting and loading issues. For more information, and instructions on how to do this, visit Clearing Cache and Cookies.

Software

Most likely you will need to submit an assignment using a word processing program, such as Microsoft Word.  As an IVCC student, you have access to free Microsoft 365 apps.  The term "app" is short for application and is a type of software that can be installed on a computer, tablet, or smartphone so you don't have to use a browser.

  • Refer to Microsoft 365 Apps for instructions on how To Install Microsoft 365 Apps on Your Own Device and how to use the online apps.
  • You cannot install the Microsoft 365 apps on a Chromebook, but you can use the Microsoft Online apps.  Refer to Microsoft 365 Apps for instructions on how To Use Microsoft 365 Online Apps.
  • If you are taking CSP-1203, CSP-2203, CSP-2204, CSD-1210, or CSI-1002, you will be required to use Microsoft Access.  MS Access can be installed on a Windows laptop or desktop computer, but cannot be installed on a MacBook nor Chromebook.
  • If you use Google Docs as your primary word processing tool and need to submit a file as .doc or .docx, then follow the instructions for Download a Copy of a File at Google Docs Create, View, or Download a File.
  • If you use Apple Pages as your primary word processing tool and need to submit a file as .doc or .docx (Word), then follow the instructions for Save a Copy of a Pages Document in Another Format at Pages User Guide for Mac.
  • Always check your syllabus or with your instructor on other required software for your course.  Specialized software is also installed on computers in the Academic Support Center--visit Campus Technology to find the computer bank list.

Mobile Apps

The following are two helpful mobile apps to use on your smartphones.

  • Microsoft Outlook makes it easy to check your student email on the go.
  • Brightspace Pulse makes it easy to view class notifications, due dates, and grades.