Technology Q & A’s for Prospective Online Students
What tech skills and equipment will I need?
To participate in an FSU online course, you need to have:
- Access to computer equipment for your course work on a regular basis.
- An Internet connection
- An Internet browser that is compatible with Blackboard
- An FSU Computer account
- Access to a telephone, TV/VCR, and audiotape player
- You will need a phone if you use dial-up access for the FSU network or to your Internet service provider.
- Warning: If you have Call Waiting, your modem may disconnect when you receive a call. You can stop this from happening. Before dialing the phone number to connect with your PPP account, have your modem dial the appropriate code (*70) to turn off Call Waiting.
- Not all online courses will require a TV/VCR or audiotape equipment.
Before your class begins, check with the instructor (or mentor, if applicable) of your online course to be certain.
Will the University help me with computer/technology problems and training?
Florida State University has a technical staff devoted solely to helping every student resolve his or her computer problems and become proficient technology users. FSU's User Services provides:
- A Help Desk to answer your technology questions by email or phone: (850) 644-4357
- Hours: M-F 7am – 9pm; Weekends/Breaks 10am-6pm, Closed Home Football Game Days & 6pm the Friday before
- Links to computer retailers
- Access to University websites and resources
- Registration for free online computer tutorials
If User Services can't give you an answer or provide a technical service, they will point you to a resource that can.
Can I get help learning to use my course websites (electronic classroom?)
FSU's electronic-campus support staff continually updates and expands instruction in navigating course websites, including:
- Bb Student Manual
This online guide provides step-by-step instruction on how to use course website tools, from the Discussion Board to View Grades. - Blackboard User Support
The University maintains a staff devoted solely to helping online learning students navigate and resolve course websites and resolve technology problems. You can also contact the staff by e-mail or phone (1-850-644-4635.) - Mentor help
Students can post questions and answers about using course technology on course websites.
How will I access the University’s online resources?
After you have been accepted as a student, you will need to go through orientation in order to receive your FSUCard number and FSUID. You can then register for your University computing / ACNS account. Your ACNS account provides access to all online resources and websites available to FSU students, including:
- Research (e.g., access to hundreds of databases and many online journals)
- Personal web pages
- Courses
- Administrative announcements
