Course Delivery Systems
Course content in the program is delivered using two electronic platforms:
- Virtual Classroom System (Zoom)
- Course Management System (Canvas)
The virtual classroom software is Zoom, a tool that enables students to participate in class discussions and interact with classmates and the instructor synchronously online. Students can communicate via text messaging, ask questions using a headset/microphone or mobile device and participate in dialogue about course concepts. To join a Canvas class meeting, log in to Canvas and access the “Zoom Conferences” tool on the left side navigation panel in your Canvas course. Then“join” the meeting for the correct date and time. To access Zoom when not logged into Canvas, you can use this URL.
The learning management system (LMS) at UF is Canvas. Courses in Canvas provide various types of online content and feature well-designed tools for learning and interaction. Students can access syllabi, assignments, readings, quizzes, and video content using this system. Discussion boards are available for students to engage in scholarly discussions with classmates and instructors. Students can monitor their progress using Assignments, Quizzes and Grades tools.
Additionally, all students in the program have access to the “POP– Administration and Orientation” Canvas site. This is a place to post important program announcements such as policies and procedures, job postings, and academic events.
Technology Requirements and Support
Hardware
The following is the minimum recommended hardware configuration:
- High-speed, good Internet service, connection, with Wi-Fi
- Laptop or Desktop Computer
- Dual Core 2Ghz or Higher CPU (i3/i5/i7 or AMD equivalent)
- 4GB RAM
- 128Gb Hard Drive
- USB port(s)
- Sound card, and speakers or headphones/headset
- Microphone
- Webcam
- 1024 by 768 resolution monitor
- Printer
- Operating System
| Operating System | Details |
|---|---|
| Windows 10 Pro or Education (NOT home) | Professional or Education includes BitLocker software for encryption; Home does not include BitLocker |
| Mac OS X | OS X Lion and higher includes Filevault 2 software for whole disk encryption. |
Software
- Microsoft Office 2013 or higher (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
- Acrobat Reader DC or other PDF reader
- Any update-to-date AntiVirus Software (Windows 10 includes Windows Defender anti-virus)
- Windows Firewall or Equivalent
Enrolled students seeking free or discounted software, please visit UF Academic Technologies – Software Licensing Services.
Technical Skills
- Ability to access course webpages to read text and listen to recorded videos
- Use of word processing tools (MS Word, PowerPoint)
- Downloading/uploading content
- Submitting online assignments
- Use of a variety of communication tools (Canvas Inbox, Discussions, Zoom Conferences)
Digital Literacy Skills
- Use of online libraries, databases, and search tools to identify information sources
- Ability to assess the trustworthiness of digital information
- Ability to properly cite digital information sources
Additional Security Information (UF)
Below is a link to information provided by UF IT with regard to how to protect yourself during times of online activity.
Learn how to protect yourself during online activity.
Technical Support
For technical support at any time, send an email to helpdesk@ufl.edu.