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When can we start? ^ Top
You can begin any day any time. TTIA operates on a rolling enrollment, and our professional staff members are available year-round. So, you decide when you are ready to do school. Click here to enroll.
Once I enroll, how long will it be before I can start? ^ Top
Personalized, individualized educational programs take time to create. We want the best for your student, so we make personal contact with you to assure that we create a program tailored to his or her needs. From the time you enter the enrollment form online until the time you actually begin working usually takes between 10 and 15 business days (including shipping time). However, in the busy season (July through October), a heavy enrollment volume may lengthen processing time. Click here to enroll.
Is a tuition payment plan available? ^ Top
Enrollment registration fees are payable at the time of enrollment. Typically, payment of tuition is expected at the time of course selection before materials are shipped. In some instances, limited payment options may be available. Consult with your Guidance Counselor for details and availability.
How do I pay tuition? ^ Top
The Academy accepts most major credit cards as well as check or money order. In the case of a check or money order, curriculum materials will not be sent until the check has cleared or the money order validated.
What curriculum does the Academy use? ^ Top
The Academy uses a customized distance learning edition of the popular Switched-On Schoolhouse CD-ROM–based curriculum from Alpha Omega Publications.
Is the curriculum centered in a Biblical worldview? ^ Top
Absolutely! We wouldn’t have it any other way.
How does the Academy address denominational differences? ^ Top
The Academy strives to bring unity to the body of Christ worldwide. Thus, we aim to concentrate on the commonalities found between Christians of all denominations rather than magnify the differences. Our curriculum comes from the same philosophy, and we leave plenty of room for parents and local churches to enhance their doctrinal and training distinctive.
What should I expect to receive in my materials package? ^ Top
The materials package will contain a CD-ROM set for each course you are taking, a separate single CD that contains the application programs, an Academy manual, and paperback copies of all required reading books. Note: science tools and laboratory equipment are not included. Your Counselor will provide you with information on how to secure these materials.
How do I get my curriculum? ^ Top
We take care of that for you as part of our service package in the Academy. After you talk to a Counselor, your curriculum will be ordered and shipped directly to you. Curriculum charges are included in tuition. Note: s cience tools and laboratory equipment are not included. Your Counselor will provide you with information on how to secure these materials.
What about lab supplies, reading books, and supplemental materials? ^ Top
Required reading books are provided as part of the curriculum and tuition package. However, science tools and laboratory equipment are not included in the curriculum materials or the tuition price. Your Counselor will provide you with information on how to secure these materials when course selections are discussed. Any additional supplemental materials you may wish to use are also at your own cost.
How long does it take to get materials? ^ Top
Once you have spoken to a Counselor and made course selections, please allow 7-10 business days for materials to reach you.
We live outside the United States and our school year is different from the U.S. system. Is that a problem? ^ Top
Not at all! Our rolling enrollment and year-round staffing mean you can start and stop your school year any time. So, you set the calendar to meet your needs and match your culture and lifestyle.
Do I have to work certain days or hours? ^ Top
No. Our server allows synchronization or remote access 24-7. That means you can work and even leave messages for your teacher any time. So, you work when it fits your schedule. Note: Academy teaching staff members are only available for telephone support during normal U.S. business hours in the Mountain Time zone.
How long should I work each day? ^ Top
While we know that the time it takes to complete assignments varies from student to student, a general guideline for lessons, quizzes, and tests is to expect about 45-60 minutes of school per subject per day. Study time for quizzes and tests, research time, lab time, and time for completing other assigned projects should be planned beyond the normal 45-60 minutes per subject per day.
How long does it take to complete a course? ^ Top
It usually takes 180 school days to complete a course. Some students finish sooner, some later, depending on their academic capabilities. We ask that courses be completed within one calendar year from the date started or that customized arrangements be made if this goal cannot be met. Keep in mind that "time on task" is an important educational issue.
Do I have to work a certain number of school days to be given credit for completion of courses? ^ Top
No. Each of our courses is designed as a full-year (10 units) or semester (5 units) course. We issue credit based on the amount of work completed – not on the time spent. So, if you have a highly motivated student or choose to work on a block schedule, no problem. We’ll still issue credit for the amount of work completed.
Is there a time limit for course completion? ^ Top
We ask that courses be completed within one calendar year from the date started or that customized arrangements be made if this goal cannot be met. It will vary, depending on your student’s academic capabilities. However, it normally takes about 180 school days to complete a full-year course.
Is academic support available? ^ Top
Academic support is available in a number of ways, including electronic messaging and telephone contact. We’re here to help you, and we’ll make sure you get the support you need for success.
How do I contact a teacher for help? ^ Top
Teachers can be reached via the message system in the Switched-On Schoolhouse program, by telephone, or by direct e-mail. We love to help, so feel free to ask.
How do I get transcripts for my records or for a college? ^ Top
Send us an e-mail requesting that the transcript be sent and include the name of the school, the school’s address, phone, and fax (if we’re faxing), and the name of a contact person (if applicable).
What is synchronization? ^ Top
Synchronization is the process of sending in completed work and simultaneously retrieving teacher comments and grades. It takes only a few moments to do and needs to be done before and after each work session. If using remote access, you don’t need to synchronize.
What is remote access? ^ Top
Remote access involves continual connection to the Internet and allows you to work directly from our server without having to synchronize. For remote access to work efficiently, high-speed cable or DSL is required.
Which is better: synchronization or remote access? ^ Top
The answer to that question depends on you and your lifestyle. There are merits to both methods. Your Counselor will discuss both options with you when you arrange course selections.
How often should I synchronize? ^ Top
Plan to synchronize at least twice daily – before beginning schoolwork and upon completion of the day’s work. Some students synchronize after completing each subject.
What happens if I don’t synchronize? ^ Top
If you don’t synchronize, you run the risk of losing work. The Academy can only restore work that the Academy has received.
Can I have two students working at the same time? ^ Top
As long as you have multiple computers with the necessary levels of Internet access (depending on synchronization or remote), you should be fine. To serve multiple students, a wireless network or other situation that allows each student independent access to the Internet is recommended. In some cases, you may simply have to coordinate your synchronization schedule.
What is my role as a parent and teacher? ^ Top
The parent-teacher is a “motivator” who encourages. He or she is a “guide” who helps lead and direct students. Questions from your student should come to you first. If you don’t have the answers, then let us help. Our support begins where your academic comfort level ends.
How do I find research materials to complete research assignments? ^ Top
The Internet is a great resource for beginning research. Search engines like Google.com and others can take you to a wealth of information. We also recommend using research projects as an opportunity to get away from the computer for part of the day. You might consider going to the library and searching good old-fashioned books. The books provide excellent resources, and some fresh air along the way helps, too!
What about plagiarism? ^ Top
Like most academic institutions, the Academy frowns on plagiarism and other breaches of academic integrity. As Christians, we have high expectations for the integrity of our students, and we rely on the parental aspect of this partnership to assist us in this regard. Where necessary, the Academy will deal with plagiarism or other academic issues on a case-by-case basis.
How do I take care of my CDs? ^ Top
Care for your CDs like other precious items. Avoid storing them in areas of extreme heat or cold. Keep them in their respective cases to avoid scratching. Consider making a backup copy or loading the curriculum directly onto your computer’s hard drive (if space permits). The CDs will easily make it through your school year, and beyond, with just a little time and care.
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