Many online students experience similar challenges and difficulties when using technology as a learning environment. They may be hardware or software problems, connection failures, or general knowledge. In an effort to help students get answers quickly, and find solutions anytime, we have compiled a list of frequent questions. Please feel free to forward your own questions here or take some time to prevent frustrations. If you do not find an answer to your question, eMail: Missy.Hagen@roch.edu or Phone: 529-6126 and a support technician will be glad to assist you.
Will
Pop-up Ad Stopper software work with Desire2Learn?
If you are getting Error on Page messages, or nothing happens when you
click on Mail, Discussions, or Quizzes, you may be running a Pop-Up
Ad Stopping software such as Pop-Up Stopper, Norton Suite, Pop-Up Killer,
Netscape 7.1, Ads Gone or others. Desire2Learn uses Javascript pop-ups
to display test windows, new messages and mail and will not function
with this software. Be sure to disable any pop-up software before entering
the class website, and enable when finished.
What
settings should I use with my network Firewall?
Some students who have Cable Modem service or use a network have indicated
problems accessing the Desire2Learn Log In page or class sites. In most
cases, the problem was traced to the default settings as High Security.
Because Firewalls monitor risky connections, you may need to reset the
overall settings to Medium-High or Medium. Make sure that you are not
blocking all ports, and if problems persist, power down the firewall
and restart your system. You may also need to contact your network Administrator
or service provider to resolve all issues.
What is KeyServer and why do I need it?
This question is in regards to the Digital Arts and other programs that
use a CD with applications to complete assignments. Students check the
class CDs out for one semester, and are able to use the software when
connected to the Internet. KeyServer is a licensing software that checks
the serial number against a master list to allow use of the CD. It is
necessary to be online when using the software, and the key server should
be configured as keyserver.roch.edu.
Why can't I see my online classroom when
I use America Online?
One of the more common problems we have encountered is the Internet
browser built in AOL. When students dial up to AOL, and use the web
interface included, often menu items do not show up or the page is incomplete.
This is due to settings within their environment, but can be overcome.
Once you establish an AOL connection, minimize (do not close) the AOL
application to the taskbar. Then use a browser (Explorer or Netscape)
on the Windows or Mac desktop to gain access. This will still give you
web access, but connects outside the AOL environment.
Why
does my computer tell me it cannot save preferences or settings when
closing?
You will get this message if you are using a CD from RCTC with software
applications. The reason is most software is designed to be installed
on hard drives, and CD's are read only. When the computer tries to write
to the CD drive, it will indicate an error and close. Your applications
will run better and save settings if you copy applications from the
CD to your C: or D: drive for the semester.
What
operating systems and platforms are supported by RCTC Online?
RCTC supports both the Windows and Macintosh environments. The operating
systems includes Windows 98, NT, 2000, ME and Mac OS 7.4, 8, and 9.
Make sure you check out the correct version from the library or your
CD will not function.
How
do I submit assignments to my instructor?
This should be indicated in the syllabus from the instructor, but in
general there are a few preferred methods. One is to attach the file(s)
to an email message and send directly. This works well expect in cases
where large files (2 or more Meg) are involved. Some classes use dropboxes
within class sites. These stay within the course setting, and can be
returned to students. In extreme cases, files are saved to CD or disk
and sent to the instructor, or brought to campus if possible. It is
also possible to request a hardcopy print of work, but arrangements
should be made prior to due date.
Why
can't I use the class CD at my place of work?
This is often due to high security settings within corporate environments.
Sometimes a security administrator may set the firewall to prevent applications
such as KeyServer from opertaing within their network, leading to error
messages. If you plan to do your assignments at work, contact your network
administrator so they are aware of your needs.
Why
won't my KeyAccess application install from the CD?
Due to the number of Operating Systems available and the time of production
for the class CDs, it is possible you recieved a version that is not
compatible with your computer. Therefore, you can download the latest
version of KeyAccess for the Mac and PC by right-mouse clicking on the
links below: