How It Works
Halstrom High School® - Online students meet with their teachers in real-time via the Internet. They use conferencing software that allows them to speak, hear, and visually communicate with one another during the class. This real-time, personalized interaction establishes a bond of trust and respect between student and teacher. Though separated geographically, a strong mentor relationship is established.
The student and teacher can share their desktops, whiteboards and use chat as they meet together. Teachers are also available through chat during online office hours and can also be contacted 24/7 via email.
After meeting with their teachers, students complete their work and then upload their homework to the course-specific digital drop-box that is accessible to them anytime of the day or night. The Blackboard course management system contains assignments, assessments, grade books and other course materials to supplement textbooks. It also has external web links, course specific web links and a chat tool with a whiteboard. This course management software is web-based and doesn't require any downloads.
Students must master the assignment at 80% or better before moving on to the next assignment. During the live session, teachers will re-teach anything that is necessary, preview the next assignment, and teach the next lesson.
Computer Requirements
With only a few additional hardware tools, students can turn their fast, reliable laptop or computer into a learning station.
Hardware
Headset with microphone
HyperPen stylus with touch pad (for science and math classes)
Software
Microsoft Windows 98, ME, 2000, XP (Windows XP Service Pack 2 recommended), or Vista
Microsoft Office Professional 2000, XP, or 2003
Horizon Wimba (Go to www.fihs.horizonlive.com and run the setup wizard after receiving a username and password)
Internet Explorer 5.5 or better
Anti-virus software with updated anti-virus definitions
A broadband Internet connection (DSL or Cable) is required.
