Online Classes

How can I prepare for my first class?

	Download Zoom to your device- if you are on a smartphone or tablet you will need the app “Zoom Cloud Meetings”. If you are on a computer, you can either attend from a browser or download Zoom. Click here for more detailed instructions.
	Check that your camera and microphone are working correctly with this Test Meeting.
	Identify where you are going to attend classes- try to find a quiet space with good lighting. Position yourself so the light is directly in front of you (lighting behind you will make it difficult to see you).
	Become familiar with Zoom- learn how to mute/unmute your microphone, turn on/off your camera, change your name (if needed), and use the chat box.

How do I find the Zoom meeting link for my class?

	BEACON uses Remind to text you your class link, meeting ID, and password. You will receive the message 30 minutes before your class (each class). If you are using your phone to attend class, you can click the link and it will automatically open the zoom app (or prompt you to download Zoom for the first time). If you are using a different device, you can use the meeting ID and password to log in.
	Please contact BEACON staff (703-368-7491) if you do not receive a text message 30 minutes before class.

What should I expect when I join class?

	When you first join the class, you will receive a message that says, “The host will let you in soon.” Please wait while the teacher admits you to the classroom. If you receive a message that says, “Please wait for the host to start this meeting” and it is past class time, please reach out to a staff member. Your teacher may be having technical difficulties.
	Connect your audio (Join Audio or Unmute) and camera (Start Video). Please keep your camera on throughout class as it helps the teacher better support you and builds classroom community.
	If you need to step away or take care of a child, feel free to briefly turn off your video. As soon as you can, please turn your camera back on.

How can I be an effective participant during class?

	Try to find a quiet space and keep your microphone muted until you speak (especially if you have background noise).
	Consider using headphones if you have background noise, it will be less distracting for both you and your classmates.
	Keep your microphone muted until you speak (especially if you have background noise).
	Turn your camera on and angle the camera at eye level. Check to be sure that your whole face is visible to your teacher and classmates.
	Check your lighting and position yourself so the best light in your room is directly in front of you. Light behind you will create a shadow and make it difficult to see your face.
	If you need to step away or take care of a child, feel free to briefly turn off your video and microphone. As soon as you can, please turn your camera back on.
	Be on time.
	Be patient if there are distractions.
	Ask questions if you need help.

Who can help me if I’m having trouble?

	If you are having trouble connecting to class or are not receiving BEACON messages (announcements or class information), please contact staff.
	If during class you can’t see or hear, please tell your teacher- either by speaking or using the chat box.

I’m having difficulty seeing- what can I do?

	When the teacher is sharing material, if you have any trouble seeing, please tell your teacher it’s difficult to read. If you are on a smartphone, turn sideways for a larger view and pinch the screen to zoom in (just as you would a photo).
	If you’re having trouble seeing all your classmates at once and you’re on your computer, you can try different viewing options.

General Questions Answered About BEACON Classes

What are the class costs?

I already know my level, do I have to complete BEACON’s testing?

What happens if my class is too easy or too difficult?

Please contact BEACON staff (703-368-7491) if you think your class is too easy or too difficult. Staff will ask you to describe what about class is challenging or too easy (reading, writing, speaking or listening), review your test scores, seek feedback from your teachers and make a decision whether or not a class level change would be appropriate for you.

What happens if I can no longer attend my class?

Please contact BEACON staff (703-368-7491) if you have a schedule change that prevents you from attending class. When there is space, staff may be able to accommodate student’s requests to change to a different class time or location. Please note that not all classes are offered at all locations/times. Students are not permitted to transfer their class registration to another person or class session and no refunds are given.

When can I move up to the next English level?

Most students stay in the same level for two to three class sessions because a post-test is required to determine eligibility for class level advancement. Post-tests are formal reading comprehension exams given after 60 hours of in-class instruction.

Do I have to take a post-test?

Yes, all BEACON students are REQUIRED to test before enrollment and after 60 hours of in-class instruction. Post-tests are used to determine eligibility for advancement to the next level and to encourage students about their language growth. Students who do not complete post-testing when it is time will not be eligible to enroll in future classes until they have completed testing.

How do I know when to post-test and where do I go?

BEACON staff will contact you through Remind to let you know when you have reached 60 hours of in-class instruction. They will set up a time for you to test in-person.