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Physical geography is a field that examines the processes, forms, and spatial components of systems that operate at and near the earth's surface. GPH 111 is a general survey course and assumes no previous background. It is a four credit laboratory science class which is transferable to the state university system.
This online class covers the same material discussed in the traditional lecture class, but requires much more effort and discipline on your part. You must be comfortable using a computer and the Internet. This class requires the same amount of time as the course held on campus, but with this online version, you do your work from home using your computer. Primary communication is by email and within online discussion areas. You will learn course material from your textbook, course web pages, lab assignments, online discussions, and internet resources. |
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| Hardware Requirements |
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To complete this course you will need the minimum hardware as listed below. Obviously, newer, faster and later versions will work more efficiently. Most online students are able to work from home, however, computers are available for student use in the High Tech Centers (HT1 and HT2) 7 days a week. The HT1 Pit is the huge, sunken Computer Commons area in the center of High Tech Center 1, with hundreds of workstations open for the use of registered students via the Instructional Palette network. (There are also smaller Computer Commons areas in High Tech Center 2 and the Library Media Center.) High Tech Center Hours, High Tech Center Location.
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MS Windows
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Apple Macintosh
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- Intel Pentium 550 mHz processor or equal
- 256mb RAM
- 6gb Hard Drive
- CD-ROM
- 800x600 resolution monitor
- Windows 2000 or XP Pro operating system
- 56 kbps modem + an Internet service provider (AOL not recommended)
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- Power Macintosh G3 400 mHz
- 256mb RAM
- 6gb Hard Drive
- CD-ROM
- 800x600 resolution monitor
- MacOS 9.1 (MacOS X 10.3 preferred)
- 56 kbps modem + an Internet service provider (AOL not recommended)
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Software Requirements
You will need the following software programs on your computer:
- An account with an Internet service provided (AOL not recommended as students have connection problems using their browser);
- Latest versions of Internet Explorer or Netscape (javascript and cookies must be enabled) - Use Firefox for MAC users, Safari is not as reliable in Blackboard.
- Google Earth Software (free download). Latest version go to: http://earth.google.com/
- Latest version of Java (plug-in link page)
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (plug-in link page)
- Make sure your anti-virus software is working and definitions are up-to-date
- GCC email account (free to GCC students)
- Username and password for Blackboard
My expectations...
You need to remember that online courses are the same as any traditional in-class program - all that differs is the method of course delivery. Online classes are not easier and you must take them seriously. Since I can't see you, I can't tell if you are having difficulty - make sure you let me know so that I can help you. Remember, good time management, organizational, and study skills are very important keys to your success in an online class. Rio Salado has a good page on online learning.
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