What technologies are currently in use?

University of Phoenix has a host of different technologies they utilize to engage students and promote learning.  Technology plays a critical role in learning at University of Phoenix (University of Phoenix, 2013).  While they do offer a traditional classroom environment for students to attend, a majority of the students who come to the university do so because of their online class options.  Students utilize a computer to complete assignments, download course materials, and work on other tasks (University of Phoenix, 2013).  They have very specific requirements that students must meet in order to be able to participate in their online classes.  Below are charts adapted from the University of Phoenix’s website that outlines their expectations (University of Phoenix, 2013). 

Hardware and Peripherals	Software/Applications	Computer Accessibility	Accessibility for Operating Systems	Additional Software Requirements
-       2 GHz processor or faster -       1 GB RAM or greater -       80 GB hard drive or larger -       Cable/DSL broadband connection or better -       1024x768 resolution monitor or greater and supporting video card -       Sound card with speakers -       CD-ROM drive -       Inkjet or laser printer -       Computer microphone -       A web camera capable of video web conferencing and editing	Operating System -Windows XP or later or -MAC OS 10.4 or later, with Windows XP or later Boot Camp partition (for selected courses) Microsoft Office 2007 or later, Office 2008 (MAC) -Office suite must include Microsoft Access - Recommended is Microsoft Office Professional Academic 2010 (PC) or 2011 (MAC) Microsoft Project (for selected courses) One of the following Internet browsers -Microsoft Internet Explorer 8.0 or later -Mozilla Firefox 3.5 or later -Google Chrome 7.0 or later -Apple Safari 5.0 or later Adobe Reader 9.0 or later Adobe Flash plug-in 10.0 or later System configured to allow installation of browser plug-ins as required Local administrative privileges (for required software installations) Anti-virus program E-mail account Broadband Internet access	All students need access to a computer for success in their coursework.	Both Microsoft and Apple provide additional accessibility guides, tutorials, and tips for use on your computer. Windows Vista® includes built-in accessibility settings and programs that make it easier for computer users to see, hear and use their computers. Visit the Microsoft or Apple website for information beyond the documents provided here.	UOPX supplied software: -       (via virtual student desktop for specific courses) -       Microsoft® Visio® (for selected courses) -       Microsoft Visual Studio .NET -       Microsoft SQL server -       Red Hat Linux -       Adobe Flash Professional -       Adobe Dreamweaver -       Adobe Photoshop -       Adobe Acrobat Standard -       LabSim from TestOut -       Oracle Database XE Student Access: - ALICE (for selected courses; free download) - Citrix Online plug-in (latest version) - Java JRE,JDK (for selected courses) - Visual Logic (for selected courses; free download)

University of Phoenix is constantly reviewing these tools and technology in order to ensure that they are up to date on the latest trends in the technology space. 

Reference
University of Phoenix. (2013).  Computer Requirements.  Retrieved from                   http://www.phoenix.edu/students/how-it-                  works/innovative_education_technology/computer_requirements.html