What do you need to get started? Let's take a look!
Hardware
1. Computer: A computer in good, working condition is highly recommended to be able to view and store content. The computer should have sufficient hard drive space (at least 1 GB) available for downloading videos of lectures, content documents, and audio files. The computer should have at least 2 GB of RAM. The computer should also be connected to an internet connection with a minimum speed of 1.5 Mbps. This will allow your computer to be able to efficiently handle streaming video and audio, downloading video and audio, downloading software, and uploading assignments. If you have a dial-up or satellite internet connection, you may run into trouble with your download speed, making it nearly impossible to stream or download video.
2. Mobile Device: While a computer would be preferential, a mobile device (smart phone or tablet) will suffice in many cases. The device will not have the same capacities as a desktop or laptop computer, but it will still be able to access the same material. Be sure that the device has at least a 3G connection (WiFi connection is preferable). You may run into storage issues as mobile devices are not meant to hold many large files at once. However, the mobile device is wonderful for access on-the-go.
Software
Open content is found on many different platforms. Many sources of open content prefer to house the content on their websites, allowing the user to stream video, but not download it. Other sources can only be viewed by downloading. Therefore, the software required to access the open content will vary tremendously. However, I have compiled a short list of essential software that you will most likely find useful as you search for open content.
1. Web Browser: If your computer's operating system was installed correctly, you already have a web browser such as Safari or Internet Explorer installed. Make sure to read about the recommended web browser if you are taking an online course. Sometimes content is handled best by a browser that you may need to download, such as Firefox or Google Chrome. If you do not inquire about the recommended browser, content may not load correctly, resulting in you missing a vital piece of information.
2. iTunes: As many institutions are looking for a central location to house all of their open content, many universities have turned to iTunesU. This program is a free download, and it allows access to and storage of open educational content. iTunes will also play most audio files, a lecture format which many people prefer. Although you do not have to download this program to access valuable open content, iTunes is a one stop shop for many open content courses.
1. Web Browser: If your computer's operating system was installed correctly, you already have a web browser such as Safari or Internet Explorer installed. Make sure to read about the recommended web browser if you are taking an online course. Sometimes content is handled best by a browser that you may need to download, such as Firefox or Google Chrome. If you do not inquire about the recommended browser, content may not load correctly, resulting in you missing a vital piece of information.
2. iTunes: As many institutions are looking for a central location to house all of their open content, many universities have turned to iTunesU. This program is a free download, and it allows access to and storage of open educational content. iTunes will also play most audio files, a lecture format which many people prefer. Although you do not have to download this program to access valuable open content, iTunes is a one stop shop for many open content courses.
3. VLC Media Player: If you do not want to use iTunes as your default video program, I would recommend trying VLC Media Player. This program is also a free download, and it plays nearly any file type that you may encounter in your open content search. Using VLC takes away the need to convert video files to a Mac or PC-friendly format. If you decide that you like VLC, be sure to make this program your default program for opening video files.
4. Adobe Reader: This program (also a free download) allows you to read PDF documents. Many open content courses allow you to download their syllabi, lecture notes, and even parts of the readings in PDF format. Adobe Reader is essential in reading this documents on your computer.
