1.1.3 - Technical Requirements for Taking a PCS Online Course

Closeup of a smartphone and tablet laying on a laptop keyboard.

On this page, you can find what kind of technology you will need for your course.

Internet

Naturally, you will need an Internet connection to take an online course with PCS. Canvas is designed to accommodate low-bandwidth environments, but it does require a minimum of 512kbps.

Hardware

While you can use a desktop computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone to access Canvas, your course may require the use of software that is only compatible on a desktop or laptop computer. Also, some of the course functionality may be limited if using the Canvas Student app. Therefore, it's recommended that you have access to either a desktop or laptop computer. Contact your instructor for more information on what technology is required for the course.

In courses that use web-conferencing programs, like Zoom, for live class meetings or other activities, you may need to use a microphone and a webcam. Check with your instructor to see if those items are needed in your course.

Software

When using a desktop computer or a laptop, you will need the following software:

Browser
PDF viewer program, like Adobe Reader

If using a mobile device, you will need to download and install the Canvas Student app, which is available for both Android and iOS.

Web conferencing

Some instructors may use the Zoom web conferencing program for live class meetings. The instructor will provide a link to the Zoom sessions. For more information on Zoom, check out the following help resources:

How to download the Zoom mobile app
Joining a Zoom test meeting
Zoom "Show Me" videos

Canvas Requirements

Below are requirements for using Canvas.

Basic computer operating system specifications

Canvas requires computer operating systems that can run the latest browsers.

Though Canvas is designed to accommodate low-bandwidth environments, it does require a minimum of 512kbps.

For more information on other specifications like screen resolution, computer speed, and screen readers, check out the page on basic computer specifications.

Browsers to use with Canvas

Canvas supports all of the major desktop browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari. Check out the browser support page to see what versions of the browsers are currently supported.

Mobile devices to use with Canvas

The Canvas interface was optimized for desktop displays, so using small form factors such as phones may not be a pleasant experience in using Canvas. For the best user experience, it's recommended that you use the Canvas Student app.

Plugins and components needed

JavaScript must be enabled to run Canvas. To check your browser, go to the How to Enable JavaScript in Your Browser.