Getting Started with Hawkes Learning: A Student Guide

Starting a new course in an unfamiliar learning platform can add unnecessary stress. This guide is designed to remove that friction.

Getting Started with Hawkes Learning: A Student Guide
3:25

Below, you’ll see how Hawkes Learning works, how to complete and submit assignments, and where to go when you need support. Bookmark this page, refer back to it throughout the term, and use the FAQ section to quickly troubleshoot common questions on your own.

Watch this recording of a live Student Training Webinar with Student Ambassador, Ash Dean.

How Hawkes Learning Works

Hawkes is built around a three-step mastery learning process. Every assignment follows the same structure, so once you understand it, navigating the platform becomes second nature.

Instead of rushing through assignments or relying on guesswork, you'll work through a proven mastery-based learning process that helps you build confidence, strengthen understanding, and demonstrate what you've learned.

learn

Step 1: Learn

Work through the lesson content before you attempt problems. Learn includes instructional videos, animated concept builders, and interactive skill checks that walk you through the material at your own pace.

practice

Step 2: Practice

Apply what you learned by working through algorithmically generated problems. Every problem comes with step-by-step tutorials and error-specific feedback, so when you make a mistake, you find out exactly what went wrong and why. This is an ungraded, penalty-free learning environment where you’re rewarded for persistence, not perfection.

certify

Step 3: Certify

Demonstrate that you have mastered the material. Certify requires you to reach a defined proficiency level without access to tutoring aids. This is the graded portion of the platform where you’re able to showcase what you’ve learned and that you’re ready to move on to what’s next.

 

Pro Tip: This sequence exists because it works! Each term, data shows that students who dedicate time working through Learn and Practice before attempting Certify build a stronger foundation than those who skip ahead.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"I really enjoy learning from Hawkes. I really like how you can get a step-by-step explanation on a wrong answer and the videos also help me a lot."

Cindy,
Genesee Community College

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"This is such an easy way to do my work and easy to learn and navigate through. I though it would be hard but it's so easy once it was explained."

Shatonda,
Dallas College

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"The last time I used any form of online learning it was so complicated..." "This system works so harmoniously and so easy to navigate, it has been a blessing to me!"

Amie,
Palo Verde College

 

Study Tools Built Into the Platform

Your Hawkes account includes several study tools designed to support you as you work through assignments.

AI Tutor

Provides guided, personalized support while you practice. Unlike a generative AI tool, AI Tutor works solely within Hawkes-approved content, so the guidance it provides is directly tied to your coursework and supports your learning path.

Explain Error

Shows you exactly where your reasoning broke down when you answer a problem incorrectly. Use it to understand your mistakes, learn from them, and correct them before moving on.

Step-by-Step, Hint, and Solution

Breaks complex problems into smaller, manageable steps. When you're unsure where to begin, these tools guide you through the logic and reasoning needed to solve the problem without simply giving you the answer.

Practice WebTests

Allows you to create ungraded, self-directed assessments for additional practice. Choose the lessons and number of questions, set a time limit, and take the test whenever you want. Practice WebTests are one of the most effective ways to prepare for graded exams and quizzes. See the FAQ below for step-by-step instructions on creating one.

HawkesTV

Provides instructional videos organized by topic for additional review. Use these videos whenever you need a second explanation or want to explore a concept from a different perspective.

Companion Sites

Offer supplemental learning resources for select disciplines that can be accessed directly in your course.

 

Frequently Asked Questions


How do I complete assignments? 

Assignments are completed through the Learn, Practice, and Certify steps. Your instructor controls which assignments are required, their due dates, and how much each one counts toward your grade. Check your personalized to-do list or ask your instructor if you are unsure what is required. 

What is mastery learning? 

Mastery learning is an instructional approach that requires students to demonstrate understanding of a topic before moving to the next one. Rather than advancing based on time spent, you advance based on what you’ve actually learned. 

What is AI Tutor and is it safe to use? 

AI Tutor is a built-in learning tool that provides guided support while you work through Practice problems. It is designed to help you think through problems rather than hand you answers. Because it operates within Hawkes-approved content, it supports academic integrity, aligns with your existing course materials, and is safe to use. 

How do I create a Practice WebTest?

Practice WebTests are ungraded, self-directed assessments that allow you to focus on the topics you want to review. They are a great way to prepare for quizzes and exams, identify areas that need additional study, and measure your progress throughout the course.

To create one:

  1. Sign in and select View Course.
  2. Open the WebTests tab and select Practice WebTests.
  3. Select Create Practice WebTest.
  4. Give your test a name.
  5. Use the chapter drop-down to browse content. Select Add for each lesson you want to include.
  6. Enter the number of questions and choose a time limit from the Set Time drop-down.
  7. Select Start to generate and begin your test.