When I try to launch an online lesson, I get a blank screen. What should I do?
Check that you have the most recent version of the Adobe Flash plugin. You can download and install Flash directly from Adobe's website. If you have the most recent version of the Flash Player and you still don't see the lessons, make sure that your browser has Javascript enabled and is accepting cookies. To test your browser configuration, please visit our Browser Test page. If you are still having trouble please submit a support request so that we may determine the problem and assist you in getting up an running. - back to top -
The videos are slow to appear, and they aren’t playing properly. What should I do?
If you have dial-up Internet access, the videos can take a long time to load. When playing videos over a dial-up connection they may not play continuously and will pause during playback. You will need Broadband Internet access to play the videos and run the overall program effectively. - back to top -
Where do I click to get the videos to play?
Click on one of the “film strip” icons in the green “Examples” area on the left side of the screen to launch a video example. - back to top -
What is the best way to go through a lesson?
Start by watching and listening to the video and audio examples. Next, go through the practice problems. Note that for each practice problem, you should copy the problem down, then work the problem on a separate sheet of paper, then check your answer using the check button. If you get the answer wrong, you can use the hint, work, step-by-step, or audio animation buttons for an explanation. Next, go to the deep thought “Q” button to challenge yourself with an enrichment question. Note that the “A” and “W” buttons will provide an explanation. Next, you can print out the extra problem worksheet for more practice, and print out the notes page for further review. Finally, when you are ready, take the multiple-choice self-test to see if you’re ready to move on to the next lesson. If you do poorly on the multiple-choice self-test, you can take it again and the problems will be different. - back to top -
What do I need to run your programs (system requirements)?
All you need to run the online lessons is a Macintosh or Windows computer with an internet connection, sound card, and a browser with the Adobe Flash plugin. If you are using a Windows operating system, we recommend Windows 2000 or XP (Home or Professional). Macintosh users should be running OS X 10.2.8 or newer. Our lessons require the Adboe Flash plugin version 8 or newer. A broadband internet connection (DSL or Cable) is recommended but not required. However, if you have a dial-up connection the videos and other multimedia elements may take a long time to load. Internet Explorer running on Macintosh computers is not supported. Finally, Javascript must be enabled and your broswer must also be set to accept cookies from our site.