Technology Requirements: What Students Need

Screenshot from a MasterMind Prep Live Tutoring Class using Cisco WebEx video web conferencing.

MasterMind Prep’s Live Virtual Classroom is powered by the latest video web conferencing technology by WebEx® from Cisco®, a leader in online video and collaboration. The only technology required to participate (see below) is simply a high-speed Internet connection. For the best experience, we also recommend a webcam, headset and digital writing tablet (for math students only) but they are not required.

Note there may be times when local Internet connectivity is slow or other issues beyond our control may cause slight delays or outages. We will work to provide you with the best possible online learning experience.

Test Your Internet Connection Speed

You need a high-speed cable connection or higher because video conferencing requires more bandwidth than watching a movie or playing a game because you are downloading and uploading video simultaneously. High-speed DSL may work but is not preferred. We recommend a hard-wire Ethernet connection between your computer and router for the best experience. Wireless connections, while convenient, are slower and may result in a delay in the sync of video with the audio.

  • Run this Network Speed Test to measure the speed of your connection by choosing the city closest to you. If your connection speeds are not at or close to 10 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload, you will be unable to participate.
  • Test your operating system, browser and connectivity in a WebEx test meeting here.

Do not stream audio or video on your computer or other computers in your home while logged into your session if you have a normal residential cable connection. This will slow down the connection speed. It is best if other family members not watch movies, play music or video games online while tutoring is in session.

Computers, Mobile Devices and Web Browsers

WebEx allows you to learn in real time on any PC, Mac®, iPhone®, iPad®, Android® or Blackberry® device and operating system, however smartphones do not provide the best experience. We recommend a computer with a dual-core processor of at least 2.0Ghz and 1GB RAM or you may find it does not have enough power to support video conferencing. No new software or hardware is needed, however if you plan to use a mobile device you must download the free WebEx apps here. The 128-bit SSL and 256-bit AES encryption ensures privacy during transmission.

Our system supports most browsers, including the latest versions of Firefox, Safari and Internet Explorer. While WebEx says it is compatible with Google Chrome, we have encountered some problems with it. If you use Chrome and cannot access your WebEx session, try logging in with another browser.

Logitech 720p Webcam C310

Click to order a webcam we recommend, or shop for others.

Video Web Cameras

MasterMind Prep believes it is essential for students and teachers to see each other during the session to build strong personal relationships and get the most from the learning experience. While cameras may not be used all of th e time, we suggest that students have a good quality webcam. Most built-in webcams on newer computers work fine, and HD webcams from Logitech and Microsoft deliver higher video quality.

Logitech ClearChat Comfort USB Headset

Click to order a headset we recommend, or shop for others.

Noise-Canceling Headsets/Microphone

To prevent feedback, we recommend that students use a noise-canceling headset with microphone. You cannot use your computer’s speakers because feedback often creates an echo for everyone in the class. If you have a noise-canceling microphone in your webcam, you can use mp3 earphones. Students with a noisy environment or microphone will be required to mute their mic when they are not talking.

Genius MousePen 8 x 6-Inch Graphic Tablet

Click to order a writing pad we recommend, or shop for others.

 

Digital Writing Tablets

For the best experience, we recommend that math students purchase a digital writing tablet with a pen mouse for drawing and writing on the whiteboard. It is much easier than using a traditional mouse.

The Learning Environment

Students need a quiet environment for study when attending Live Online Tutoring. This is important for the student, teacher and others in the class. Sounds from conversations, televisions, radios, loud music, dogs barking, etc., can be heard and disrupt learning — even when they are not in the same room. Please make every effort to find a quiet location to minimize noise during the session.

Video Specifications

Our Cisco technology uses VGA quality, H.264 video that automatically adjusts video to the highest standard for each participant according to available bandwidth and computer capabilities. Students and teachers can view each other via webcam video with high-quality 360p (640×360) pixel resolution at up to 30 frames per second. Currently, WebEx supports video for up to 5 students and 1 teacher at one time.

Cisco, Webex, Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad, Android, Blackberry and Solaris are registered trademarks of their respective owners, are not associated with MasterMind Prep in any way and do not endorse our services.