You’ll need 3 technological things to be successful at Minnesota Online High School:
- Regular access to a relatively new computer. We strongly encourage a laptop or desktop computer with Windows 11 or higher, or Mac OS 14 or higher–but a Chromebook will also work.
- High-speed internet access
- A headset with microphone
The software you will be using at MNOHS is all free and accessible. MNOHS students and teachers use only Microsoft programs (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.) to submit and give feedback on course assignments. We do not use Google Suite. We do provide Microsoft software for free to all enrolled students and teach you how to use it in our Technology Orientation. If you have a Macintosh laptop, we’ll teach you how to open Word docs in Pages and how to save your Pages work in Word format. If you have a Chromebook, we’ll teach you how to save everything to Microsoft OneDrive.
Important! You will not be able to do most of your MNOHS coursework on your smartphone, iPad, tablet, or Kindle. You need regular access to a Windows or Mac computer, or a Chromebook, to fully participate in your MNOHS classes.
Related Questions
PC specifications
- Windows 11 or higher
- Intel Dual Core processor or higher
- High speed Internet connection
- At least 4 GB RAM (8 GB highly recommended)
- Monitor screen resolution of at least 1260 x 768
- All-in-one multi-function printer with scanner (recommended for students who want to reduce screen time)
- A way to save work to removable storage (flash drive, thumb drive, jump drive, external hard drive)
- Ability to connect a headset with a microphone to your computer can be plugged into your computer
Mac specifications
- Mac OS 14 or higher
- Intel Dual Core processor or higher
- High speed Internet connection
- At least 4 GB RAM (8 GB highly recommended)
- Monitor screen resolution of at least 1260 x 768
- All-in-one multi-function printer with scanner (recommended for students who want to reduce screen time)
- A way to save work to a removable storage (flash drive, thumb drive, jump drive, external hard drive)
- Ability to connect a headset with a microphone to your computer
PC and Macintosh audio requirements To take full advantage of the listening and speaking tools available to online learners, you’ll need a headset with a microphone and speaker that can be plugged into your computer. This does not have to be a costly, high-end gaming or music headset. A good quality headset can be purchased for around $20 at most retail stores. If possible, look for one that connects to your computer’s USB port. Software requirements MNOHS provides students with software they need.
If you have concerns about the technology you have or need some help getting access, please contact us.
