Parkland College

Make Sure You're Ready For An Online Class

Learn about online and hybrid courses
Learn about our online systems
Take the Self-Assessment Quiz
Test your browser
Download software

All distance learning courses can be challenging, enriching and convenient, but they are not for everyone. They should not be seen as an easy way to earn credits. In fact, these learning environments require as much or more time and energy than traditional classroom learning.

Read the Computer Requirements section and then take the Self-Assessment Quiz to see how well-prepared you are for online learning.

Computer Requirements

Your computer should be able to run Firefox 3 or Internet Explorer 7.

If your computer can run the latest version of Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Internet Explorer, it's powerful enough for a Parkland online course. If online streaming movie sites and interactive websites work correctly, then our courses will too.

Internet Connection

Broadband highly recommended, Dial-up is ok.

Parkland online courses often use video or other interactive material that is best viewed over a broadband Internet connection like DSL or Cable. However, you can complete most Parkland online courses with only a 56k dial-up modem connection.

Wireless Connections

We do not recommend using a wireless connection when taking a test online. Your signal can be lost during the test which could result in loss of data.

Web Browser

For Angel courses, Firefox is highly recommended, Internet Explorer 7 and 8 are also ok. Angel courses are not compatible with Safari or Chrome browsers.

For Cobra Learning courses, Firefox, Chrome, Safari and Internet Explorer are all supported.

Neither Angel or Cobra Learning supports the Opera browser.

Browser Plug-ins

You can download these and other free plug-in on our software downloads page.

• Online Learning Home
• Why Parkland?
• Courses
• Make Sure You're Ready For An Online Class
• How To Get Started In Your Online Class
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Tuition & Fees
• Dates & Deadlines
• Angel Video Tutorials
• Quick Tips for an Online Class