This section provides information about the distance learning and technical requirements for this class.

1. How to be a distance education student.
2. Software requirements and RAM.
3. Problems


1. How to be a distance education student
i. Communication with the instructor - Students and instructors need to communicate with each other from the first day of class. Stay in contact throughout the class with the instructor. Makes sure to ask questions to the instructor through e-mail, chat, and I am available during my office hours at West Valley.

ii. Be Efficient - It is important that you manage time. Give yourself time limits to complete tasks. Take frequent little breaks. Once you get going in Photoshop time flies!

iii. Be Flexible - It is important that you understand that distant education is new to you and it will take time for you to adapt. In addition, you will be using new technology that may take some figuring out.

iv. Balance a Schedule - You will need to plan times to work on your distance education. Make a schedule where you can alot a minimum of 6 hours a week.

v. Resourcefulness - Know where to find help. If you are having problems you can ask a friend, family member, search the Internet, or ask your instructor. If you are having equipment problems try and fix it right away. Don't put it off because you will fall behind in the class.

vi. Persistence - Before you begin a distance education class you will need to make a decision to finish. It will not be easy, but you will have to discipline yourself to study, read, and spend many, many hours in Photoshop.

2.Software Requirements and ram:
SOFTWARE FOR THIS CLASS: Photoshop CS3.
BROWER: The most recent version of your favorite browser: Firefox, Safari, Netscape, IE... Download one of more of these for free off the net.

See course page for list and links to free downloadable software.

Photoshop loves RAM! Make sure you have at least 500+ mgs of RAM.
It will increase your productivity, and Photoshop operates better with more ram (faster processing speed and less crashes).

3. Problems
If you have problems viewing the video tutorials you need to check that you have the most recent version of your browser. THIS IS IMPORTANT!

For other general troubeshooting options see:

Click here for dictionary of computer terms:
pcwebopaedia.com

Click here for good setup info and 24 hour help:
24hoursupport.com

Click here for more basic computer help:
whatis.techtarget.com