Frequently Asked Questions
Is Algebra Nation really free?
Yes, Algebra Nation is 100% free. The University of FLorida, in partnership with Study Edge, have made the commitment to bring this resource to 100% of Florida districts, schools, and students. In order to make that possible, we’re keeping this resource free.
Are there plans for Geometry Nation?
Yes, we have received an overwhelming number of requests for Geometry Nation! We only want to offer this as a completely free resource – just like Algebra Nation is now. In order to do that, we need to show Algebra Nation is being widely used by students, parents, and teachers throughout Florida. The best way to bring about Geometry Nation (and Biology Nation and Civics Nation and Algebra II Nation…all the Nations!) is easy – vote with your mouse. Use Algebra Nation, spread the word to your colleagues and friends, and keep on providing us with your feedback and thoughts! Print out Algebra Nation material here and email us your feedback here
How is Algebra Nation different from other online tutoring videos?
There are a lot of videos teaching algebra skills online. Algebra Nation is the only source that features dynamic videos already specifically aligned to Florida state standards. Instead of merely throwing drill and kill problems at students, Algebra Nation’s videos break down each featured problem and provide a corresponding study guide so students can follow along at their own pace. The videos prompt students to pause and try out problems independently. The videos also explicitly encourage collaboration by asking higher order questions that students can then answer on the wall. Algebra Nation is also unique in its “Test Yourself!” practice feature, which allows students to test their skills in the same computer-based format they will encounter on the EOC.
I clicked on the “Go to App!” button, but it looks like it’s Study Edge. How do I get to Algebra Nation?
Don’t worry! You’re in the right place. Because of how Facebook is currently set up, the name of the program has to be Study Edge. Click “Agree” and enter the name of your affiliated high school when prompted. You will be taken directly to Algebra Nation and all of its fabulous resources. Email us at help@AlgebraNation.com if you need additional help!
Why are we using Facebook?
We’re committed to making studying algebra as easy and intuitive as possible. This philosophy extends even to our log-in process. Oftentimes, the hardest part of getting students to use something new is the sign up process. Because a huge percentage of students already have existing Facebook accounts, students do not have to sign up for another program or go through yet another new website. By making it as painless as possible to access the program, students are much more likely to use it. Many high school students are already continually logged onto Facebook – students can wish their friend “Happy Birthday!” one moment and watch a short video or ask a homework question in the next. In addition, students today are very familiar with Facebook’s format – from using the wall as a springboard for discussion to using facebook’s search app feature – and they will be able to jump right into the content of Algebra Nation.This also helps teachers – teachers will not be inundated with requests from students when students invariably lose their log-in information! You can learn more about why we use facebook by watching the ‘Why we use Facebook’ video here.
How safe is my information? Does this mean Facebook has all my Algebra Nation information?
The University of Florida and Study Edge have taken every step to ensure the safety of Algebra Nation participants. For example, participants’ profile pages are blocked, making it impossible to access their information, and the transparent wall – it’s the same one for the entire state of Florida – is constantly being monitored.Facebook does NOT have any Algebra Nation information because all Algebra Nation data and videos are hosted on the Algebra Nation server, not on Facebook’s. We are only using Facebook’s user name and password information to make the process easy for students and teachers alike. Even our wall is something we created from scratch! Although it looks similar to the Facebook wall, the Algebra Nation wall has special features – and additional security – to maintain a safe, secure social media environment.
Why can’t I use the Test Yourself! Practice on the iPhone and the Android app?
The Test Yourself! Practice has been set up so students become more familiarized with the computer-based exam format, which is very similar to the one they will encounter during the EOC Test. The “Test Yourself!” Practice should be done at a desktop or a laptop computer to mimic closely the actual testing environment. After all – “Practice does not make perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect.”
How can I get started?
If you are a parent/student: click on the Enter Algebra Nation button on AlgebraNation.com and follow the instructions to get started. If you are already logged into Facebook or have a Facebook account, just use your username and password. If you do not have an account, take a few minutes and create a username and password. There is NO need to make a profile, post pictures, or message any one – just use your new username and password to jump right into Algebra Nation!If you are a teacher/school administrator/district administrator: Click here to receive a password to access Teacher Resources. By filling out the form, you will also receive a special bi-weekly Algebra Nation Newsletter.
What is the Algebra Nation Newsletter?
The bi-weekly Teacher Newsletter will update teachers, parents, and administrators on the most recent Algebra Nation developments, share teaching best practices suggested to us from your colleagues and peers, and ask for your feedback on Algebra Nation developments. Algebra Nation is a living and breathing entity – it is constantly evolving to fit the needs and requirements of its community – you! In order to do so, we will ask for your feedback and opinion periodically and make changes accordingly. We’ll let you know what you’ve said and how we’ve adopted your changes.We will NOT spam you and we will NOT sell or abuse your information.
How do I get linked to my teacher on Facebook?
Great question. When you first select your high school, make sure to also select your teacher from the drop down menu about the wall. Watch this short introduction video to help you get started!
As a teacher, will my students see my profile?
Students will only be able to see your name and your profile picture if you post on the wall. Even if you choose to post of the wall, students cannot click on your profile picture, message you, or see your private profile. You can also adjust your privacy settings at facebook.com/privacy.
As a student, will my teacher see my profile?
Your teacher can only see your profile picture and your name. Your teacher cannot click on your name or message you on Algebra Nation. However, please remember that your profile picture and your name is part of your public profile, so put your best foot – or face – forward!
What if I want to feature these videos in my classroom?
Algebra Nation was originally conceptualized as a weekend and afterschool resource. However, teacher focus groups quickly pointed out the usefulness of using Algebra Nation within the classroom. In response to this feedback, Algebra Nation created a special section just for teachers! To access videos in your classroom, you have to use the Teacher Resources portal. Go to AlgebraNation.com and click on Teacher Resources. Enter the password you received in your Algebra Nation welcome email and the school email you used to sign-up. If you do not have a password, you need to first sign up for teacher access by joining Algebra Nation here.
How do my students link to me on Facebook?
When you first select your high school, make sure to also select your teacher from the drop down menu about the wall. Watch this short introduction video to help you get started!
How can I ask questions? Who is answering my questions?
Ask questions by posting on our wall! You can also draw your equation or graph through the Draw Something feature or even take a photo of your problem and post your question on the wall with your smartphone.
What are karma points?
Algebra Nation believes in good karma: by helping others, you’re helping yourself! You receive Karma Points for both asking great questions and answering peers’ questions on the Algebra Wall. Karma points are shown next to a students’ name, and the Karma Leader board shows the top five karmic leaders in the state! In additional to bragging rights, karma points will be redeemable for very real prizes: the highest Karma Points earner for the months of February, March, and April will each win a new iPad! Prizes will be awarded to entire classrooms as well – when a class reaches 10,000 Karma Points, they win a pizza party! Email us at help@AlgebraNation.com with your ideas for prizes and we’ll do our very best to make it happen.
How can I be more involved in Algebra Nation?
Calling all teachers, parents, administrators, and students! We would love your input and feedback to make Algebra Nation even better. Email Melody@AlgebraNation.com to get more involved in Algebra Nation.