Who should enroll in the GED Online class?

The purpose of Durham Tech’s GED Online program is to provide an alternative to classroom instruction for persons with unique accessibility needs that prevent them from attending onsite classes, such as, lack of childcare and/or transportation, illness, job scheduling conflicts and other reasons. Successful learning with GED Online depends greatly on students’ consistent efforts and willingness to take personal responsibility for their learning. Students able to attend classes at onsite centers are highly encouraged to do so.

What are the steps to GED Online enrollment?

Prospective students should begin by attending the required GED Online Orientation/TABE Testing/Registration session, which is given each Tuesday from 1:30-4:30 p.m. at the Basic Skills Center, 1628 Lawson Street, room 808. During this session, applicants will:

• Take the TABE Placement Test in reading, language and math.
• Register for the GED Online class if minimum test criteria are met on the TABE (minimum criteria of at least ninth grade reading, math and language).
• Complete required paperwork.
• Receive additional instruction and CD for success in the online class.

Persons who cannot make the Tuesday session should call 919-536-7220 to make other arrangements.

What is expected of GED Online students?

Students are expected to:

1. Work a minimum of six hours per week on online assignments;
2. Demonstrate progress in online course work; and
3. Maintain regular contact with the instructor by email or phone.
   

How long will it take students to prepare for the GED test?

The answer to this question varies with the student. Much like your traditional studies, the time that it takes students to prepare for a test depend upon the academic skill levels of the students, how much and how often they apply themselves, and their level of focus. We encourage students to study at least two hours per day, five days per week.

Can students take the Official Practice Test online?

Once successful study has taken place with the GED Online program, students may then take the GED Online Post-Test. If they are successful in passing this Post-Test, the instructor will provide them an endorsed referral form to take the Official GED Test.

If students are not successful in passing the Post-Test from the MHC Interactive GED Online program, they must come to campus to take the Official GED Practice Tests.

What do students have to do in order to take the Official GED Tests?

Students must adhere to the following steps:

1. All students are required to attend a GED Test Registration Seminar before taking their first Official GED Test. Seminar and test dates may be obtained from the Basic Skills Center Administrative Office, by calling 686-3626, or by viewing GED Testing Schedule.
2. After students have completed the seminar, they should call 919-536-7220 or stop by the Basic Skills Center at 1628 Lawson Street to make an appointment to take the Official GED Test. An appointment is needed to take each GED Test.
3. Visit the Business Office located in the White Building, room 1 to pay the $7.50 testing fee. Take the receipt along with an endorsed referral form (GED Short Application) to the testing center with you upon taking your first GED Official Test. You will only need to pay the $7.50 testing fee once, however, you will need to take an endorsed referral form for each testing session. You will not be allowed to test without it.
   

Can students take the Official GED test online?

No. GED Online (only) provides academic preparation to help students ready themselves to take the official GED test. The Official GED Test is not given online. Students needing to take the Official GED test must follow the same process as students attending at traditional site classes.

What technical skills do students need?

Students enrolling in the GED Online program will need the following technical skills:

1. Use a computer mouse and keyboard;
2. Navigate the Internet;
3. Send and receive email with attachments;
4. Know how to type word documents;
5. Know how to upload and download files; and
6. Install computer software.
   

What kind of equipment will students need?

Students will need access to a computer system with the following minimum requirements:

• Windows 98, NT, ME, 2000, or XP;
• Pentium I, AMD K-6 or better processor;
• 64 MB RAM;
• 14-inch or larger color monitor;
• 8x or better CD-ROM;
• Sound card/headphone;
• Microsoft Internet Explorer v6.0 or higher;
• At least 550 MB of hard drive space; and
• Internet access.

This computer software program will not work on an iMac/Apple.

When is the system available?

Who should students call if they need technical assistance?