​Software Needs​

To be successful in an online class, students needs to have access to some basic software programs. These programs are all free and will likely be required at some point during your course.  

Mic​rosoft Office

All students at College of the Desert have free access to Microsoft Office products via their MyCOD email account. 

You can access your free Office suite via your email, use the cloud version, or download the product to your own, personal computer. All at no cost. 


 

Adob​e Reader

Many documents your instructor will post may be in a format called Portable Document Format, or PDF for short. This is a type of file that opens on PCs and Macs and does not require you to have a specific word processing program. 

You can download Acrobat Reader for free. ​

Adobe Download Page


ScreenPal and Techsmith Capture

Both ScreenPal ( formerly Screencast-o-matic) and Techsmith Capture (formerly Jing) allow you to capture your computer screen (and yourself). Sometimes instructors will require you to do an intro video or other project using one of these free tools. 

You can download ScreenPal or Techsmith Capture for free!

Screencast o Matic screen 

Jing Screenhunter screen 

 


College B​uys​

Students at California's community colleges have access to greatly reduced technology through CollgeBuys​.​ Check out discounts on Adobe products, laptops, and other "gadgets" and software you will need to be a successful college student.


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