New Student Orientation
Understanding Online Education

Tech Requirements and Support

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IN THIS LESSON

At Luther Rice College & Seminary, we will equip you with the necessary tools to succeed academically. To help you prepare your device for the college experience, we have created a comprehensive resource: "Preparing Your Computer" on the Office of Information Technology (OIT) website. Below, we provide an overview of the recommended technology requirements, key platforms, and cybersecurity practices to guide you through this process.

Preparing Your Computer

  • Choosing the right device is essential for a seamless educational experience. With numerous options on the market, here’s what we recommend:

    • Avoid using Chromebooks, Galaxybooks, Vivobooks, iPads, or Android tablets as your primary device, as they may not meet all academic requirements.

    • Opt for a computer or laptop with:

      • At least 8 GB of RAM or more for smooth multitasking.

      • At least 50% free space on your SSD or HDD for optimal performance.

      • Windows 11 as the operating system. Note: Windows "S Mode" is not recommended.

    To maintain your device’s efficiency:

    • Regularly update your operating system to patch bugs and improve functionality.

    • Install a paid antivirus program. We recommend:

      • Webroot SecureAnywhere

        Malwarebytes Antivirus

      • PCMatic, a trusted tool used by our CIO for over 25 years.

  • For accessing online resources, particularly Moodle, we recommend using:

    • Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge for the best compatibility.

    • Safari for Apple users, but ensure third-party cookies are enabled.


  • Office Applications

    Luther Rice provides all active students with access to Microsoft 365, which includes essential tools like Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and OneDrive. You can use these tools online or download them onto your devices. 

    Note:

    • Your Microsoft 365 license expires upon graduation or if your student status becomes inactive.

    • Thirty days after expiration, all associated data will be deleted and cannot be recovered.

    • An alternative option is OpenOffice, a free office suite, but OIT strongly recommends Microsoft 365 for its superior features and integration.

    Additional Requirements

    A reliable webcam is required for proctored exams using Respondus Lockdown Browser and Monitor.