Getting Your Setup Ready
Look, I'll be honest with you. The tech side of online learning can feel overwhelming, especially if you're not super comfortable with computers.
But here's the thing – you probably already have most of what you need. And the stuff you don't? It's easier to sort out than you might think.
We've been running classes in Hong Kong since 2019, and we've seen students join us from all sorts of situations. Some had brand new laptops. Others were using tablets their kids left behind. Most just had whatever device they'd been checking email on.
What Actually Matters
We don't need you to be a tech wizard. Really. What matters is that you can see the screen clearly, hear the audio without too much hassle, and speak into a microphone that picks up your voice.
The rest? We can work around it.
I've watched students troubleshoot their way through frozen screens, audio delays, and mysterious error messages. And you know what? They still learned English. Because the tech is just the delivery method – it's not the actual learning.
Your Device
A laptop or desktop works best, but tablets can work too if that's what you've got.
Phones are trickier – the screen's just too small for some activities. But if it's temporary, we can make it work.
- Windows 10 or newer
- macOS from the last 5 years
- iPad running iOS 14 or later
- At least 4GB of RAM (8GB is better)
Internet Connection
You need something reliable. Doesn't have to be blazing fast, but it should be stable.
Most Hong Kong home broadband plans work fine. Even the basic ones.
- 10 Mbps download speed minimum
- 5 Mbps upload speed preferred
- Wired connection beats WiFi when possible
- Close other apps during class
Audio Setup
Built-in speakers and microphone? They'll do. But headphones with a mic make everything clearer.
You don't need expensive gear. Basic earbuds with a microphone work great.
- Any headphones with built-in mic
- Quiet space helps more than fancy equipment
- Test your audio before first class
- USB headsets avoid connection issues
Software You'll Use
Video Platform
We run classes through Zoom. Most people have used it by now – it's become pretty standard since 2020.
Download it ahead of time. It's free, takes about five minutes to install, and we'll send you a test link before your first session.
The mobile app works if you're in a pinch, but the desktop version gives you more options for seeing materials and other students at the same time.
Web Browser
Chrome or Firefox work best for our learning materials. Safari's fine too if you're on a Mac.
We use Google Docs sometimes for collaborative writing exercises. It's free, works in your browser, and you don't need to install anything.
Just make sure your browser isn't from 2015. If it hasn't updated in years, grab the latest version before starting.
File Access
You'll need to open PDFs for worksheets and occasionally watch video files we share.
Most computers already have what you need. If not, Adobe Reader is free and handles PDFs. VLC player is free and plays any video format.
We keep file sizes reasonable – nothing that'll take forever to download on a standard connection.
Communication Tools
We use WhatsApp for class reminders and quick questions. Most people in Hong Kong already have it on their phones.
Email's our backup. Check it at least twice a week during the course – that's where we'll send important updates and materials.
Everything works through regular apps you probably already use. No proprietary software that only works with our classes.
Linnea Halloran
Technical Support Coordinator
I've been helping students get connected since we started offering online classes in 2019. Before that, I was doing IT support for international schools in Hong Kong.
The most common issue? Usually it's something simple. Audio settings are wrong. Camera's blocked by another app. WiFi's struggling because someone else is streaming Netflix in the next room.
We do a tech check before your first class starts. Takes about ten minutes. We'll make sure everything works, show you how to share your screen if needed, and answer any questions about the platform.
And if something breaks during class? Don't panic. Message me on WhatsApp and I'll walk you through fixing it. Usually takes less than five minutes to sort out.
I'm available from 2pm to 10pm Hong Kong time on class days. Our autumn 2025 program runs Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings starting September 8th. Spring 2026 sessions begin February 16th with Tuesday and Thursday morning options.
Making It Work Better
Test Everything First
Join the test session we run the week before classes start. It's optional but helpful. You'll see what the classroom looks like, practice using the tools, and ask questions without any pressure.
Find Your Spot
Pick somewhere you can sit comfortably for 90 minutes. Decent lighting helps – facing a window works better than having it behind you. And background noise matters more than you'd think. Close the door if you can.
Charge Your Device
Sounds obvious, but laptops die mid-class more often than you'd expect. Plug in before starting. Or at least check you've got enough battery to make it through the session.
Close Other Programs
Video calls eat up computer resources. Close whatever you're not using – email, social media, those 47 browser tabs you've had open for weeks. Your computer will run smoother and the video quality stays better.
Have a Backup Plan
Internet cuts out sometimes. Power goes down. Stuff happens. Keep our WhatsApp number handy. If you get disconnected, message us and we'll help you rejoin. Or we'll catch you up on what you missed.
Ask Before Class Starts
Not sure if your setup will work? Email us before you sign up. Send us your device specs, tell us about your internet situation, mention any concerns. We'd rather sort it out beforehand than have you struggle during the first session.
Still Got Questions?
Tech requirements can feel confusing when you're reading them as a list. Sometimes it helps just to ask a real person.
Send us a message. Tell us what you're working with. We'll let you know if it'll work, and if it won't, we'll suggest what might help.
Get in Touch