News from the Nest

Getting Started with Hawkes Learning: A Student Guide

Written by Hawkes Learning | Aug 17, 2026, 5:09:43 PM

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.

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.

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.

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.

 

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