Computer & Internet
Knowledge and Access
Online Learning
What Do You Need?
These are some things that are crucial for success in online classes.
Assessing and filling your needs before you start online classes is key.
- Regular access to a computer
You need to have regular times when you can use a computer or tablet for completing assignments and tests on time.
- Reliable, high speed internet service
If your internet reception is spotty or crashes in the middle of a test, this can affect your grade.
-Basic computer & Internet skills
Things like knowing how to upload an assignment are essential to passing classes.
If you need help with this, contact Support Services - access@pierpont.edu
Common Computer requirements
Chrome and MacBook laptops:
Chromebooks don't work with many online programs that some of Pierpont's programs use, so access to a different brand of computer (ex., HP, Dell) might be needed. It is not recommended that you use your phone.
Most programs require their students to take the Computer Concepts (OFAD) class. MacBooks are less compatible with the content required in the class, which can make understanding and completing the required assignment difficult.
For meetings:
Camera (separately attached or built-in to your computer or laptop)
Microphone and speakers (separately attached or built-in to your computer or laptop)
Printers:
If you need to print something out, Pierpont students have access to printers at each campus location.
Microsoft Office 365
As a Pierpont student, you have access to Microsoft Office 365 products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
You also can use Google programs associated with a Gmail account [ex., Docs, Sheets], as they can be downloaded into Microsoft Office products like Word or Excel.
Click Below to connect through Pierpont's Portal.
Printers
Students can use Pierpont printers. For information about using Pierpont's printers, click below.
If you do not have a computer or internet,
Pierpont can help!
Some Pierpont Campuses offer computer labs with computers for students to use.
On most campuses, students can access free Wi-Fi using their own computers in the building or even in their cars.
Check with your instructor or contact Student Services at
studentservices@pierpont.edu 304-367-4907
A computer that was manufactured recently should be able to handle any online school program.
If you have questions, go to the Help section at the bottom of this page for resources.
reliable Computer & Internet Access
If you do not have this at home or with friends or family, check out the resources below.
Community Based Resources
Computer & Internet Access
To access a reliable computer and/or internet in your community, consider going to your local library.
These resources are often free to the community, but may require you to sign up for a library card. Some libraries even offer WiFi, so you can use your own laptop.
To locate your local West Virginia Library click here below.
EduRoam
Pierpont students can access EduRoam wherever it is available (e.g., public schools) throughout the State and across the Nation.
For more information about EduRoam, click below.
WiFi Hot Spots
Internet Access
Wi-Fi Hot Spots are areas with a wireless network for anyone to use.
These include places like local coffee shops or restaurants. Sometimes you can even access their internet in their parking lots while in your car.
Make sure to follow the safety tips below.
Internet & computer safety tips
If you would like to print a paper copy,
click below to access a PDF version.
![](https://www.google.com/images/icons/product/drive-32.png)
help!
Computer & Internet Problems
If you have concerns about your computer/internet, want more information about computer safety, or if you have trouble with any of Pierpont's programs (ex., Cengage), your Pierpont email logons, connecting with My.Pierpont.edu, etc., contact Pierpont's Information Technology (IT) Department. Email IT at:
Help@pierpont.edu
You also can check with IT about hardware and software requirements for online classes, so you can make sure your own computer meets those requirements.
Blackboard Problems
If you are experiencing problems with your Blackboard account (ex., logging in), email Pierpont's Blackboard specialist at:
blackboard@pierpont.edu
TIPs
Back Up Everything!
What if you’re working on an important research project, your computer crashes, and you lose everything right before the deadline?
Regularly store your work safely on the cloud (like your Google Gmail drive or your Microsoft 365 OneDrive) or on a flash drive (or both) as you are working on it.
NOTE: If you are using Microsoft 365 Word, Excel, or PowerPoint through the Portal, your work should be saved to OneDrive automatically. Doublecheck to be sure.
Microsoft Office Programs
Most of Pierpont's programs require the completion of OFAD 1150, Computer Concepts and Applications. This class teaches word processing, spreadsheet, database, the Internet, and presentation software using Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint). Take that class right away.
When you can use Microsoft programs, you understand the basics of most all other programs. You will only need to learn the differences between them.