1. The Essential Tech Toolkit
- A Real Computer: A desktop or laptop is required. While tablets can work for viewing, they are not sufficient for the typing, toggling, and file management needed for college-prep work.
- Strong Internet: Since our classes are live on Zoom, a stable connection is key. If possible, use a wired connection or sit close to the router.
- The Learning Hub (Canvas): This is where you’ll find your syllabus, submit assignments, and see teacher feedback. We recommend students log in daily to check for updates. (We’ll email you all the instructions for setting up your accounts.)
- Audio/Video: A working webcam and headset/microphone are highly recommended. Being “seen and heard” is how we build a real classroom community!
2. Tips for Student Success
- Create a “Classroom” Space: Find a quiet, well-lit spot. It’s hard to engage in a live discussion if there’s a TV or a sibling in the background!
- The 5-Minute Rule: Log into Zoom 5 minutes early. This gives you time to troubleshoot your mic or camera before the teacher starts the lesson.
- Engage the Chat: Don’t be a spectator! Ask questions in the chat or use the “Raise Hand” feature. Our teachers love interactive students.
- Check Your Feedback: In our partnership, the teacher provides the “Grade and Guide,” but the student must read the comments in Canvas to grow.
3. The Parents’ Role
- The “Guide on the Side”: Especially for younger students, check in weekly. Are assignments being turned in? Does your student know their Zoom password?
- The Accountability Partner: For older students, we encourage independence, but we still rely on you to ensure they are attending every live session. Consistency is the key to mastery.
Tech Readiness Checklist
💻 Hardware Essentials
- Computer or Laptop: A reliable Mac, PC, or Chromebook. (Note: Tablets or Phones are great for checking grades, but are not recommended for attending live classes or completing detailed assignments.)
- Webcam: Internal or external. Being visible is a key part of our participation grade!
- Audio Setup: *
- Microphone: A built-in mic works, but a dedicated headset with a mic is highly recommended to reduce background noise and echoes.
- Headphones: Essential for staying focused during live discussions.
- High-Speed Internet: A stable connection is required for Zoom sessions. We recommend a minimum download speed of 5–10 Mbps.
🌐 Software & Browser Requirements
- The Right Browser: Google Chrome or Firefox is the “gold standard” for Canvas and Zoom. Keep them up to date with the latest version for the best security and performance.
- Zoom Client: Download and install the Zoom Desktop Client. Joining via a web browser is possible, but it limits a student’s ability to use “Breakout Rooms” and other interactive features.
- Document Tools: Students will need a way to create and export files (typically as PDFs).
- Options include Microsoft Office or Google Docs/Drive (Canvas can not read Pages, so these documents will have to be converted to PDF)
🎒 The Canvas “Must-Haves”
- Scanner/Scanning App: For math or art classes where hand-written work is required, you’ll need a way to turn paper into a PDF. (We recommend free apps like Adobe Scan or Microsoft Lens).
- Note: The Canvas Student App is available on iOS and Android. While it is perfect for getting instant notifications about due dates and teacher feedback, it is not adequate for submitting assignments or for seeing all required content on Canvas.