Centra Checklist

Centra is a synchronous web delivery solution for conducting virtual or "live" classroom events through the internet. A Centra session allows instructors and students to log on to a common event on the web and from there hear a lecture, participate in two-way discussions, view slides, share a common application, and travel to other web sites on the internet.

Configuring your computer for Centra

1. Your computer must have a working sound card. Speakers, a microphone, and/or a headset are recommended.
2. Windows users must be running Windows 2000 or Windows XP (recommended), Windows Vista is not currently supported. Mac users must be running OS X 10.4.x.
3. For Windows users, Internet Explorer 6.x or Firefox is recommended. IE 7 is supported but not recommended. For Mac users, Safari 2.x is recommended.
4. Disable any pop-up blockers you are running, including Google and Yahoo toolbars.
5. Users of Norton Anti-Virus should disable the application at the administrator level.

Setting up Centra

Centra is a server/client application. A one-time installation of software is downloaded to the participant's computer prior to attending an event.

Complete the following steps two to three days before your actual event to install the Centra thin client and set up Centra on your computer.

1. Go to the Centra Welcome Page.
2. Click the "System Check" link in the upper right corner of the screen.
3. Follow the on-screen directions.

After set-up is complete, you can take a tutorial to learn more about using Centra.

1. Go to the Centra Welcome Page.
2. Click the "Tutorial" link in the upper right corner of the screen.
3. Click the "Symposium" link on the left side of the screen.
4. Use the on-screen arrows to navigate through the tutorial.

Preparing for a Centra session

Complete the following steps 20 to 30 minutes before your event.

1. Close any non-essential applications running on your computer.
2. Make sure you will not be interrrupted or distracted during your session. We suggest you post a "Do Not Disturb" sign nearby and turn off your cell phone.
3. Have your course materials ready and organized.
4. Have a drink and/or a snack nearby.

Attending a Centra session

There are a number of different ways you may be invited to attend a Centra session:

• An email notification from the Centra System Administrator or a Centra Facilitator containing your log-in information.
• An email notification containing a hyperlink that, when clicked, will log you in to your Centra session.
• You may be attending a public event where no log-in information is required.

Please do not attempt to log-in to your event prior to the scheduled time.