Minimum Technology Requirements
The University of Kansas School of Nursing uses a technology-rich curriculum. The following recommendations are made with student success in mind.
Hardware
The School of Nursing supports either Windows or Mac computers and does not recommend using a tablet, netbook, Chromebook, iPad, or phone as a primary computing device. Traditional BSN students attending classes on the Kansas City and Salina campuses must bring a personally owned laptop to all class sessions. Surface Pro and Surface Book computers are not supported.
First and second year School of Nursing students are eligible for a one time financial aid budget adjustment to cover the purchase of a computer. Contact the financial aid office for more information on the Computer Purchase/Electronic Purchase program.
| Component | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Hard Drive | 512GB |
| USB Port | 1 USB Port (newer devices may require an USB adaptor) |
| Cloud Storage | Highly recommended because data loss and failures are less likely than with hard drive storage |
| Display | 1080p |
| Graphics Memory | 1 GB |
| Networking | Wireless 802.11n/ac |
| Warranty | 3 years or more |
| Operating System | Windows 10 (32-bit or 64-bit; genuine U.S.-English versions) Mac OS 10.13 High Sierra), 10.14 (Mojave), or 10.15 (Catalina): Only genuine versions. |
Other Technical Requirements
Quality Internet Connection: Classes occur on campus and online. For this reason, quality home internet connection is essential to online engagement and learning. If you currently have service that allows you to stream video without interruption, you likely have the level of internet connectivity necessary for online learning. If you have concerns about the quality of your current internet connectivity, or are ordering new service, your service provider should be able to answer questions about levels of connectivity.
Integrated Camera and Microphone (internal): Cameras allow students to join online class sessions with video. Additionally, cameras are used in security interfaces required for online exams and tests.
Audio Headset (headphones and mic): When joining online classes with many other students, headsets allow the best possible audio experience for you and others participating in the online session.
Multifactor Authentication: As part of enhanced security measures, KUMC has implemented multifactor authentication which requires login through both your password and verification from an app installed on your mobile phone. Instructions for enrolling your mobile phone are available on the Multi-Factor Authentication page. You will be unable to login to your KUMC accounts without this protocol in place. If you have questions about this requirement or would like assistance with the mobile enrollment process, please contact KUMC technical support at 913-945-9999, option 2.
University email accounts: Access university email accounts through the Outlook app that is part of Office 365 (download at office365.kumc.edu) or through the Outlook web service (mail365.kumc.edu). Do not use the mail apps bundled with Windows or macOS. For tablets and smartphones, students must first complete the KUMC mobile device agreement and then use the Microsoft Outlook app downloadable from Apple or Android app stores.
Support
When seeking support, students can access the KUMC IT Customer Support intranet site or call 913-945-9999 (option 2). Students on campus can receive assistance for their basic computing issues related to their academic work from Customer Support, available in two locations: G110 Delp. The Clinics offer:
- Advice and consultation sessions about any IT issue you're having
- Virus and malware clean-up
- Performance tuning your device
- Setting up email/calendars on your mobile device
Student Responsibilities
Students will be responsible for having a working device that meets the minimum requirements. Our curriculum incorporates the following tasks:
- Accessing and downloading course files (documents, presentations, videos, etc.)
- Uploading assignment files (documents, presentations, videos, etc.)
- Taking Quizzes and Exams
- Posting to Discussion Boards
- Accessing resources through different browsers
- Taking notes/annotating resources
- Presenting student-created files/media through a data projector. Our lecture halls and classrooms are equipped with Windows PCs for use by presenters.
It is the student's responsibility to maintain a backup of all work. We strongly suggest purchasing an external hard drive or using an online backup service.