Technical Requirements for Classes

Internet. 5 Mbps or higher stable internet is recommended (slower speeds work but reduce the quality of the class, and higher speeds improve the class experience). We recommend fiberoptic or cable internet. DSL is the next best option. Mobile broadband can work if the signal is strong and stable, but will have a reduced class experience. Satellite is generally not recommended for conferencing, but can sometimes work (depends on how the internet provider is set up). Prior to enrolling, we require families to test the GP7 conferencing software on the computers and networks they plan to use for classes.

Live Class Meetings. TPS uses the GP7 conferencing platform. GP7 provides a fully interactive classroom to students worldwide, even in remote locations with limited connectivity. GP7 is fully integrated with StudyPlace, the assignment and grades management platform. For best live class experience, we support Windows, Mac and Chromebook, preferably with pen tablet, stylus, or touch screen. GP7 also runs in browsers (Chrome recommended) on devices (tablets, phones). However, TPS provides only limited support for tablets (because the screens are generally too small for a good class experience, and because there are so many different models and operating system variants) and no support for phones (screens too small for good class experience).

Audio. Our classes require a working headset with headphones and microphone. We recommend a USB headset for reliability (USB audio devices are easiest to setup and manage, and most likely to work on any Windows, OSX, or ChromeOS system). Earbuds are generally not designed for computer use and generally do not provide a suitable microphone for classes. Desktop microphones and camera microphones generally pick up too much background audio, and so do not provide good audio for the classroom.

Camera. Cameras are not required for our classes unless specified in the course description. Some courses (e.g., spoken languages) may require cameras for the oral practice and evaluation options. Some courses may allow cameras (optional) for group discussions. More information…

Browser. We support Chrome or Firefox for StudyPlace and any other TPS web browser applications. Families and students may use other browsers, but we don’t support them.

PDF Documents. TPS supports the free Adobe Acrobat Reader on Windows and MacOS, and the free Kami extension for ChromeOS. We do not support other PDF applications. Students may use other apps, but we don’t support them or make accommodations for their incompatibilities.

Office Documents. To minimize compatibility reading and editing compatibility problems between teacher and students across operating systems and word processors, TPS supports the MS Word .docx format for editable word processing files. To save families from having to buy extra software, TPS also supports Libre Office Writer as a word processor that works on Windows and Mac, and produces universally-readable and editable .docx files. For ChromeOS only, we support Google Docs saved as .docx files. Students may use other apps, but we don’t support them or make accommodations for their incompatibilities.