All online courses have the following technical requirements, in addition to specific requirements listed in the course description:
- A computer with broadband internet access and a current web browser.
- A headset, speakers, and a microphone, plus common tools such as Zoom and Teams, allow interaction with instructors and other students during real-time class sessions.
- Students use a K12 email address and Microsoft Office 365 apps, which are provided by CTY.
Internet
We recommend a minimum of 5-10 mbps to run any CTY website or program. To run a speed test, visit speedtest.jh.edu.
Computer Hardware & Web Browsers
- Computers or devices using Windows 10 & 11, MacOS 10.13.6, or iPadOS 12.4.7 or later operation systems.
- Current supported web browsers, including:
- Chrome
- Firefox
- Microsoft Edge
- Safari for Mac computers and devices
Your Browser
Your internet browser should be configured to:
- Enable cookies
- Enable JavaScript
- Allow pop-up windows
- Allow plug-ins when needed
Virtual class meeting apps
CTY courses use a virtual classroom to facilitate communication between instructors and students. Virtual classroom sessions may take place using Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or both, depending on the activity. Students can access the virtual classroom from a Windows or Mac computer, a tablet, or a smartphone (iOS or Android).
- Zoom: Use the free Zoom Desktop Client for computers or the Mobile App for handheld devices https://zoom.us/download
- Teams: While classrooms can be accessed using a supported browser, for full functionality, use the free Microsoft Teams app for computers or the Teams Mobile App for handheld devices https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/download-app
Please install apps before class begins and ensure that any parental controls allow Zoom and Teams to function.
If you run into any difficulty and need to access your Zoom or Teams meeting via a supported browser, please try accessing the meeting link using an incognito or private browser window. Most students find that Chrome and Edge work best with our resources. Your instructor will provide the class meeting link.
K12 Account
K12 accounts provide students with access to Office 365 tools they can use while communicating and collaborating in CTY’s online courses. To avoid course access issues and ensure students receive all class communications, it is important to activate your K12 account within 48 hours of receiving activation instructions via email. CTY cannot accommodate requests to send class communications to a personal student email in replacement of the K12 email address.