Day 1 Setup Checklist | Alpha Anywhere Help Center

Overview

Before your child begins their Alpha Anywhere learning journey, ensure you have the right technology, materials, and setup in place. This checklist covers everything needed for a successful Day 1 launch.

Technology Requirements

Computer Specifications

Each student requires a Windows or macOS laptop or desktop with:

Minimum Requirements:

RAM: 16 GB minimum
Storage: At least 10 GB of available disk space
Operating System: Windows 10+ or macOS 10.14+

Important: Tablets and Chromebooks are not compatible with StudyReel and cannot be used for the Alpha Anywhere program.

Internet Connection

A stable internet connection is essential for the learning platform to function properly.

Required Specifications:

Minimum speed: 20 Mbps download
Recommended speed: 50 Mbps or higher for optimal performance

Tip: Test your internet speed at speedtest.net to confirm your connection meets requirements. If experiencing issues, consider connecting via ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi for more stability.

Headset with Boom Microphone

A headset with an attached boom microphone is required for clear communication during:

Live assessments
Coaching sessions
Interactive learning activities

Timeline: Must be ready by the end of Week 1

Recommended Features:

Noise-canceling microphone
Comfortable over-ear or on-ear design
USB or 3.5mm jack connection
Adjustable boom arm

Physical Materials

While most learning happens digitally, these basic supplies support offline work:

Required Supplies

Notepad or notebook - For scratch work, calculations, and note-taking while reading
Pencils or pens - A few sharpened pencils (or pens if pencils aren't available)

Why Physical Materials Matter

These materials support:

Math calculations and problem-solving work
Note-taking during reading assignments
Daily scratch work and brainstorming
Reducing screen fatigue during longer learning sessions

Getting Started: First Login

Step 1: First-Time Login Walkthrough

Watch this 2-minute video guide for your first login to StudyReel: First-Time Login Video 🚀

This video covers:

Launching StudyReel for the first time
Creating or accessing your student profile
Initial system checks and permissions
What to expect on your first day

Step 2: Accessing the Student Dashboard

Once logged in, you'll use the Dash feature as your daily learning hub.

How to Use the Student Dashboard Video 🏃

To Access Dash:

Open the StudyReel program on your computer
Locate the Dash widget on the main screen
Click "Open & Record" to begin your learning session

What is Dash?

Dash is your child's personalized daily learning command center. It:

Guides students through all required learning tasks each day
Tracks progress toward learning goals in real-time
Provides performance data and insights
Delivers feedback to help students improve
Automatically adjusts learning paths based on mastery

Pre-Launch Checklist

Before Day 1, confirm you have:

[ ] Computer meets minimum specifications (16 GB RAM, 10 GB storage)
[ ] Computer is Windows or macOS (not tablet/Chromebook)
[ ] Internet connection tested at 20+ Mbps
[ ] StudyReel installed and permissions granted
[ ] Headset with boom microphone ordered or available
[ ] Notepad and pencils/pens ready
[ ] First login completed successfully
[ ] Student Dashboard (Dash) accessed and tested

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

"My computer doesn't meet the RAM requirements"

If your computer has less than 16 GB RAM, StudyReel may run slowly or crash during learning sessions. Consider upgrading your RAM or using a different computer that meets specifications.

"My internet is slower than 20 Mbps"

Contact your internet service provider about upgrading your plan. Alternatively:

Connect via ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi
Ensure no other devices are streaming or downloading during learning time
Close all unnecessary browser tabs and applications

"Can I use a tablet or iPad?"

No. Tablets, iPads, and Chromebooks are not compatible with StudyReel. The software requires a full Windows or macOS operating system to function properly.

"Do I need the headset on Day 1?"

The headset is required by the end of Week 1, not necessarily on Day 1. However, having it ready from the start ensures uninterrupted progress when assessments and coaching sessions begin.

You're Ready to Launch! 🚀

If you've completed the checklist above, you're fully prepared to begin your Alpha Anywhere learning journey. The Dash dashboard will guide your child through their personalized daily learning tasks.