Technology is an integral part of UCD Medicine Programmes. Students across UCD access their module content in the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) called Brightspace. You will use Brightspace to access learning material, upload assignments and receive feedback on your work.
Weight is an important factor to consider when purchasing a laptop. You will likely carry your laptop to and from home every day, about campus and later to hospitals. The size of the laptop is a good indicator for weight so if you are comfortable with a smaller screen size, choose a 13” - 14” size screen to reduce weight
Part of student activity involves interacting with module content hosted on the VLE Brightspace which is accessed with a web browser, also creating assignments written up using Microsoft Office or Google Docs. In addition video conferencing activities form part of some modules
You don’t have to worry about processor speed and RAM for these applications. In general WINDOWS might feel sluggish with an Intel Core i3 and a Core i7 could drain your battery quicker. So a Core i5 or AMD (Ryzen 3) equivalent may be a good choice. RAM is also a big factor affecting performance so if running a few applications concurrently or using shared memory graphics cards, a minimum of 8GB RAM is recommended
Some modules use applications to enhance and complement learning material so these will require entry level graphics cards such the Intel UHD 620
Internet access at home should be a minimum download speed of 3 Mbps
It is recommended to have at least an 8GB Flash drive to backup important work and to transfer files from home and school
Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are recommended for accessing Brightspace
Sophos Antivirus is provided by UCD and available in the software downloads of the www.ucd.ie/connect website.
Microsoft Office 365 is also provided by UCD and available in the software downloads of the www.ucd.ie/connect website
| Operating System |
Windows 10 (64-bit) Mac Sierra (10.12), High Sierra (10.13), and Mojave (10.14) |
| Processor |
Intel Core i-3, i-5 or i-7 (9th Generation) or AMD Ryzen 3rd Generation Processors, running at 2.0Ghz and above. (Intel Atom/Celeron or AMD Athlon/Sempron Processors may cost less, but may not meet your requirements) |
| RAM |
8 GB |
| Disk Drive |
256GB SSD or HDD |
| Graphics Card |
Intel UHD620 or Nvidia/AMD equivalent |
| Network Adapter (Wireless) |
802.11 a/b/g/n compliant with Bluetooth Capability |
| Network Adapter (Wired) |
10/100/1000 baseT |
| USB Ports |
2 - 4 USB 3.0 Ports |
| Screen Sharing |
VGA or HDMI |
| Webcam |
Required |
| Microphone |
Required |