FAQs
Below we have provided information on some subjects we feel may be helpful to you. If you do not find the information you need, please Contact Us.
Select a question from the list below:
What computer resources do I need to participate in an OIC?
To participate in an OIC, you must have access to the following:
- Pentium computer, with Windows 98, ME, 2000 or XP operating system or a MAC OS X 10.2 or 10.3 and Anti-virus software. See Requirements for complete information.
- A Web Browser such as Internet Explorer 6.0 or Netscape Navigator 7.1. See MyGranite - Help: Browser Settings to find out how to make sure your browser will operate properly with the online courses.
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Why is using the correct browser so important?
A browser is the tool that enables your computer to access and "read" the pages on the World Wide Web. Some browsers have trouble reading Java or CGI scripting, which is necessary for using the OIC software interactive tools. For more information on supported browsers and how to optimize your browser settings see MyGranite - Help: Browser Settings.
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Where can I access my OIC?
From home, from work or anywhere you have access to the Internet. Computers are available in the computer labs and resource rooms at Granite State College centers throughout New Hampshire. In addition, you will likely be able to find computers with Internet access at other public facilities such as a library.
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How do I register for an OIC?
You can register for an OIC in the same way you register for any course at Granite State College. See registration information in How to Register.
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How do I access my OIC?
If you have registered for an OIC, you will be given access to this course the Wednesday prior to the start date. To access your course you must login to the MyGranite portal. Information will be mailed to you, but you can also find complete information on how to set up your user id and password in MyGranite-Help: Login and Password Information.
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What security issues are involved with taking an OIC?
Your course environment with OIC software is a closed, secure environment which requires a user ID and password. Your class is only accessible to registered students, the instructor, and college staff who provide technical assistance.
VERY IMPORTANT: If you are working on a computer used by other people you should ALWAYS quit or exit the browser completely when you are finished with your OIC. If you do not do this, the computer will "remember" your password and allow someone else to enter under your name.
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How do I get help to learn to use the OIC software?
The college provides a variety of options for learning how to use Blackboard, the OIC course software used for all OICs, including:
- Blackboard Orientations are conducted prior to the first week of every term. These 2-hour hands-on orientation sessions provide an interactive demonstration of all the tools used in OICs. See the current term schedule in Blackboard Orientations.
- The Blackboard Online Orientation is a valuable resource that provides you with an introduction to Blackboard. It includes how to log in, how you will be communicating and using tools and resources within your course, and how to contact us.
- A sample interactive course, "Introduction to Learning Online, A Self-guided Tour" available online within the MyGranite portal. After you have logged into MyGranite, select the link to "Try a Course" located in GSC Tools. Follow the directions on this page to enroll in the sample course.
- For further assistance, contact the Technical Assistance Center. Please complete and submit a Help Request Form. To reach the Granite State Technical Assistance Center by phone call 1-888-372-4270 (Hours: M-F, 8:30-5:00, weekends messages checked daily).
- Blackboard also has a well-developed directory providing specific information on how to use all the online tools. Once logged into your course (or the Introduction to Learning Online course listed above), click the Resources link in the menu on the left of your window, then click on User Manual.
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What if I have a conflict with one of the scheduled face-to-face sessions?
The face-to-face sessions are a required academic component of the online course. There may be academic consequences if you do not attend these sessions. Like any course at the college, you should discuss this issue with the instructor to see what, if any, accommodations can be made. To contact the instructor, see the syllabus or faculty bio posted on the current term course listing in Course Listings.
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I'm interested in a course, how do I learn more about it?
During the registration period, the instructors for the current term post their syllabus and faculty bios on the website. These will include detailed information about the course structure, expectations, textbooks and class meeting times (if they are scheduled). For more information, see the current term course listing in Course Listings.
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