Wired Writing Studio 2009 - 2010

• Computer Requirements
• Recommended Reading
• Work Spaces

Computer Requirements

Five things are needed to participate in the Wired Writing Studio:

• Computer and operating system
• Internet access (with email account)
• Internet browser
• Word processing software
• Virus-scanning software with an up-to-date subscription

Note: you must fill out a computer requirements questionnaire at the time of applying for the program.

i) Computer and Operating System:
Your computer must be capable of running the word processing package, Microsoft Word (97 or 98 at a minimum). If the computer does not already have a recent version of Word, one will be installed. (See the Word Processing Section.)

Operating System:

• PCs: Windows 95/98/ME/NT or higher
• Macs: Macintosh 7.5 or higher

Note: You are expected to bring a computer to Banff for the two-week residency. Ideally, this would be the computer you would use throughout the Wired program. If you will NOT be using the same computer in Banff as for the online portion of the studio, please fill out a second computer questionnaire.The computer for Banff must meet the same minimum requirements (including virus protection). Identify on the two questionnaires which computer is for Banff and which is for the online portion of the Studio.

If you need Word software for the online portion of the Studio, it can only be installed for you if you bring the same computer to Banff that you will be using for the online Studio.

ii) Internet Access (and email account with a recognized Internet Service Provider - ISP)
If you already have an Internet account, please indicate your ISP on the application form (e.g., AOL, Telus, Sympatico). If you are not online at the time of acceptance into the program, you will be required to sign up with a recognized ISP prior to the program start date. Note: Hotmail and Yahoo and other free email accounts are not recognized ISPs. Wireless access is available throughout The Banff Centre campus.

iii) Word Processing Software:
Microsoft Word (97 or newer for PC; 98 or newer for Macintosh). Software will be provided for the duration of the program to those who do not already meet the minimum requirements. Installation requires a CD-ROM drive and enough free space on your hard drive to install Word 2000 (or Word 98 for Macs).

iv) Virus-Scanning Software with an up-to-date subscription:
For the security of all members of this Internet community, virus-scanning software, fully subscribed and updated with the latest virus definitions, is essential for both PC and Mac users. (Mac users with the OSX operating system are regarded as sufficiently protected.) Virus scanning software needs to be of a respected standard. (Norton or McAfee are recommended, but other highly rated, regularly updating systems can be used).

Note: it is not enough to have a virus shield on your computer. You must also be currently subscribed and receiving updates.

If applying for this program, please download and complete our computer questionnaire (complete an online form or download a pdf form to complete and mail or fax in).

Recommended Reading

In 1999, The Banff Centre Press published two collections of fiction and poetry from the Writing Studio programs at The Banff Centre. In Meltwater and Rip-rap, some of the writing programs accomplished writers showcase fiction and poetry that grew from their Banff writing experiences. Both can be obtained through your local bookstore.

Work Spaces

During the on-site residency at The Banff Centre, participants are housed in their own private rooms, which also serve as their work spaces. Wireless access is available in your room. The cost of printing is covered by Writing & Publishing. Participants will do most of their printing at the Xerox facility on campus.

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All programs, faculty, dates, fees, and offers of financial assistance are subject to change. Non-refundable fees and deposits will be retained upon cancellation. Any other fees are refunded at the discretion of The Banff Centre.