Frequently Asked Questions
Does Distance Learning get the same results as in-person?
We’re really proud of our online offerings, which have achieved the same top-notch score improvements as our In-Person courses. Our Live Online classes don’t put students in a virtual lecture hall; they’re small, engaging, interactive seminars—just held remotely. Live Online courses contain all of the elements of the in-person offerings, so students don’t lose any sessions or personal attention. And you don’t have to take our word for it; see what students have to say on our Distance Learning Rave Reviews page!
What platform do you use for Distance Learning?
We utilize Zoom for our Live Online courses. Zoom is an easy-to-use interactive platform that allows the student and teacher to see each other in a password-protected room, where students can ask questions aloud or chat with the teacher privately. All of our materials were designed for both in-person and online usage, so teachers can share lectures with the class, make notes directly on the document, and highlight the most important concepts during instruction.
What if we don’t have a computer with a camera?
A camera is not a requirement for participation, and even a student with a camera is not required to use it, but students who are able to appear on camera are strongly encouraged to do so. When teachers can see the students, the teacher’s ability to connect with the students and assess their needs is greatly increased. Though large-screen devices—such as laptops or tablets—are recommended for optimal student experience, Zoom is compatible with smartphones too, and we’ve had students attend the course via phone in the past.
What if my child has to miss a session?
We have scheduled weekly Make-Up sessions that mirror the content of the regular class, all with a live instructor. When students attend Make-Ups, they are able to resume regular instruction without any interruption the following week. We often have multiple courses running with different Make-Up days or times, so if the regularly scheduled Make-Up for your course isn’t feasible, talk to your Director; he may have another option available.
What if my child needs extra help?
There are many ways to receive extra help during and after the course. First, every course includes optional "Spotlight" sessions at no additional fee, designed to reinforce skills learned in the regular classes. Second, all teachers provide their contact information during the first class and are available by phone or email to answer specific questions your student may have. Additionally, teachers are often available to meet one-on-one with students for short review sessions before class starts. Finally, students have extensive access to their Site Directors, each a master of every section of the SAT, even after the course has concluded.
How does Diagnostic Testing work?
Unlike many other test prep services, TestTakers provides a testing environment that mirrors the digital SAT’s: Students log in to our proprietary test platform, on which they are administered an online adaptive SAT, just like the real test. Extended time testing is available.
How do we get the course materials?
Students will receive an introductory package with some universal course materials upon registration. Additional student-specific materials will be emailed throughout the course.
What are the technical requirements to participate?
Zoom provides a complete listing of system requirements on its website, but the most common include
- macOS X with macOS X (10.10) or later
- Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, or 11
- ChromeOS
Supported browsers include
- Chrome, Edge, Firefox, & Safari
- Browser must be within 2 versions of current version
For more, including the requirements of less-frequently utilizaed operating systems, visit Zoom’s website:
https://support.zoom.com/hc/en/article?id=zm_kb&sysparm_article=KB0058323
