Computer Literacy Policy

Department of Clinical and Health Psychology

Computer Literacy Policy

Consistent with University of Florida policy, students are required to have access to a desktop personal computer to support their academic work within the department. The computer should have an office suite, a web browser, and a statistical analysis package, and should be capable of accessing the internet. The full College policy, along with sample hardware/software configurations, is located on the Web at http://it.phhp.ufl.edu .

AT A MINIMUM Students in the Clinical Psychology doctoral program are expected to have the following computer-related skills and knowledge:

1) Basic knowledge of hardware, software, and firmware aspects of desktop personal computers. This includes:

  1. a) Windows operating system
  2. b) Skills in troubleshooting simple computer problems
  3. c) Understanding storage and media options, including data encryption of   protected health information.

2) Knowledge and understanding of the use of the following software applications in their latest supported versions. Preferred programs, in wide use within the department, are given in parentheses, though the student can meet the computer literacy requirement through the use of other programs:

  1. a) WYSWYG Word Processing (Microsoft Word)
  2. b) Database/spreadsheet applications (Microsoft Access/Excel)
  3. c) Statistical analysis (SPSS, GPower, AMOS and MPlus) and other programs required by CLP 6527/6528/6529/7525.
  4. d) Graphics/presentation software (Microsoft PowerPoint)

3) Knowledge and understanding of web browsers (Microsoft Internet Explorer, Firefox)

4) Working knowledge of secure methods of remote access (see apps.ufl.edu)

  1. a) VPN (currently, Cisco AnyConnect)
  2. b) Terminal Services (Remote Desktop for Windows/Mac)
  3. c) Citrix Receiver (for accessing medical records; available at apps.ufl.edu

4) Knowledge/understanding of e-mail (Microsoft Outlook or other mail servers)

5) Knowledge/understanding of bibliographic and Internet search engines. Skill in using the UF Health Science Center Library Digital Resources is required. Knowledge of bibliographic database software (Endnote, Reference Manager) is highly recommended but not required.

Students are also expected to maintain knowledge and understanding of the interface between electronic communication and relevant privacy laws (HIPAA, FERPA). It is assumed that maintaining current knowledge of computer applications relevant to psychology is an ongoing and evolving task, and that the student’s research or clinical assignments may require mastery of additional software or hardware. Several topics related to use and application of computers in psychology are covered within the core and advanced curriculum. Students are referred to campus support services at the College and University level when they require additional training or consultation. Students are also encouraged to seek self-directed enhancement of their computer skills through community- or university-based coursework or online instruction.