What happens if I don't finish a lesson — for example, if my computer crashes when I'm in the middle?
If your computer crashes, or for some other reason you are unable to finish a lesson, you can go back to the lessons menu and choose that lesson again. However, once you click the "submit" button at the end of a lesson, the lesson will no longer be available on the lessons menu.
What browser do I need in order to use the PEAK English Language School (NY) online school?
You will need a web browser capable of running javascript, such as Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. Recent versions are recommended, but the very latest version should not be necessary. Macintosh users of Internet Explorer 4.5 should upgrade their browser to a more recent version. You can download the latest Internet Explorer browser from Microsoft or the latest Netscape browser from Netscape.
Why can't I use the TalkBack voice message boards?
It's most likely one of two things: First, when you first try to access the TalkBack page, a small window will pop-up, asking you to install and run a small application. Be sure to click "yes" when that happens. Second, make sure Java is enabled on your system. Go to the "help" menu in your browser for more information.
The ActiveGrammar lessons require a RealPlayer from RealAudio. You will need version 5 or later of RealPlayer. You can get the most recent version from http://www.real.com. Avoid "beta" versions because they might have problems that have not been fixed yet. And you don't have to pay for a deluxe version of RealPlayer -- the basic free version is all you need.
2) Ensure that your computer can play sounds at all.
If you are using a Macintosh:
Go to the Monitors & Sound Control Panel under the Apple menu. Make sure that the sound is loud enough to hear. If you cannot hear it, make sure that any speaker or headphones you have are plugged in properly. You can also test you computer's ability to play sounds by playing a music CD using AppleCD Audio Player under the Apple menu. If you cannot hear sounds, consider looking through the manuals that came with your computer, calling the technical support line (the number will be in your manuals), or taking the computer to a Macintosh repair place.
If you are using Windows 95/98/NT:
You should be able to hear sounds by going to Start > Settings > Control Panel > Sounds. Choose an Event that has a speaker icon next to it and click the play button under Preview. If you cannot hear sounds:
Ensure that your speakers are properly plugged in.
Ensure that your computer has a sound card and that it is properly installed.
Check the User's Guide that came with your computer, or go to Start > Settings > Control Panel > System and choose the Device Manager tab. Look under "Sound, video and game controllers" and make sure that there is some brand of sound card there and that it does not have a yellow "!" next to it which would indicate that it is not working. If you do not have a sound card, you will need to get one. If you have one but it is not working, check the User's Guide that came with it, read the tips under Start > Help (search for "sound"), or talk with the technical support provided by the manufacturer of your computer or your sound card (see the manuals that came with them). You can also take it to a computer repair store.
3) If you have a Flash player installed and you can play some sound files on some pages, but you still cannot play all the ones on this site, please contact us and let us know which sounds are not working.
Do I need a particular kind of computer to use PEAK English Language School (NY)?
Most users will have either a computer running a version of Windows or a Macintosh, but any computer capable of connecting to the Internet and running the basic software described above should work fine. A 56Kbps modem or a faster Internet connection is recommended. If your computer runs but is slow, consider getting either a faster Internet connection, more memory, or a newer computer. If you think that your hardware and software are adequate but you are still having problems, please mail our webmaster to let us know.
What is the difference between Basic Membership, Teacher Membership, and Student Membership?
Basic Membership gives English language learners complete access to language games, Coaching Exercises, teacher-led Chat Rooms, Message Boards, and many more resources to help you learn the English language.
Student Membership gives the English Language student dynamic course content that strengthens reading and listening comprehension and improves grammatical usage. Our databases track all students and give them appropriate feedback exercises based on their strengths and weaknesses, report cards, and live teacher help and support.
Teacher Memberships are for teachers who want to use course and community content on PEAK English Language School (NY) with their students. Teacher Memberships are free.
To log in successfully, your computer must allow the use of cookies. Make sure your computer can accept cookies.
On Internet Explorer, go to Tools > Internet Options > Security. Highlight the "Internet" icon then select "Custom Levels." Under the "Cookies" section, make sure both options are "enabled."
On Netscape, go to Edit > Preferences. Highlight the "Advanced" option on the menu and make sure the "Accept All Cookies" button is selected.
If you don't want to use cookies on other sites, you will have to turn these options off before leaving PEAK English Language School (NY).
The site keeps asking me to log in. Why is this happening?
Again, make sure you have the "cookies" feature on you browser enabled. It's the only way we can guide you through the site. Follow the instructions above.
Also, every Monday at approximately 3 P.M. (New York Time), DLI updates its Web
servers to provide you with new features to enjoy on this Web site.
If you are on the site at this time, you may be logged out momentarily. All
you have to do is login again to resume your study session.
