By default, most of the WSD computers are set at a resolution of 800 X 600. You have gotten used to the habit of scrolling from left to right if you want to see the whole webpage. You've also gotten used to seeing only a few students' names at a time in GradeQuick.
Let me broaden your horizons. 8) Most programs and websites now have a recommendation that your resolution (or screen size) be at least 1024 X 768. This is just one step up from 800 X 600. Let me show you an example.
Here is a screenshot of an 800 X 600 resolution screen. The icons are much bigger, but everything is more cramped, giving a claustrophobic feel.
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And here is a shot of a 1024 X 768 resolution, the next step up. At first you'll feel like the icons are too small, that it's too hard to read the text.... but then you realize you NEVER read the text on the icons anyways, you're just looking at the symbol. This will give you more space to "move around" and run wild & free.
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Now let's see what these two resolutions look like on WSD's web page.
Here is the 800 X 600 default resolution. Notice how the District Blogs button gets bumped down to the next row. This is an example of how some pages won't load how they are meant to , with 800 X 600. Also, you have to scroll from side to side to catch the whole width of the page.
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Here is the 1024 X 768 resolution. See how much better it is for viewing the website, and you don't have to scroll from side to side. You can see much more in one glance. Definitely better for getting around faster.
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This example goes for countless other applications. When you feel "cramped" and closed in on your monitor, it has a psychological effect of taking longer to accomplish certain tasks. When you increase your resolution, you feel like you can move faster and easier.
Here's how to set your resolution.
Right Click on the desktop, anywhere but on an icon. (The desktop is the main screen of your computer where you have all of your icons) After you right click, select Properties.
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Now, hit the Settings Tab on the right of this box. There you will see your screen resolution on the sliding bar. It will display what you are currently set at. If you are at 800 X 600, slide it over to the right, just one notch. This will give you 1024 X 768.
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Once you have selected 1024 X 768, just hit OK. It is not necessary to hit Apply.
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Your screen will go dark for about half a second. It will then display a box asking if you want to keep these settings. THIS IS ON A 15 SECOND TIMER. If you do not click anything, it will reset to where it was before.
Click Yes.
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That's it. You can now see more of your Instant Messenger contacts without scrolling down. Your GroupWise Mailbox can spread its wings a little, and you can see more of your email. When somebody sends you a picture, you can see it a little better without scrolling. On GradeQuick, you can now see most, if not all of your students without scrolling; You can also see more of their assignments going left to right without scrolling.
Let me know if you have any questions or trouble with this. Thanks!
Thanks Justin
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