Students can boost their ACT scores without leaving their homes.

An online course next month will help area students master testing strategies, conquer core subjects and build confidence to ace the college entrance exam. Higher marks will keep students competitive among peers applying for top colleges and scholarships.

The ACT Prep Course will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays, starting Feb. 11. Students only need a computer with Internet connection to join the five-session course. The classes provide live interaction between students and teachers.

Mackenzie Haas saw her ACT score jump two points after enrolling in the course.

“It was educational but also fun to communicate online,” said Haas, a freshman at Kent State University. “It answered a lot of my questions.”

The online classes offer flexibility for many students, said Laura Icardi, who first taught ACT prep courses at the University of Akron.

“Students often are more apt to ask a question online than speak up in a classroom,” Icardi said. “It’s not as intimidating because the students are so used to texting.”

The online course combines lectures, visual aids, and PowerPoint presentations for effective learning. Live video and audio also keep the classes interactive.

For instance, students can ask questions anytime during the course by typing their inquiries. Teachers also can monitor students’ typed responses on practice exams to determine whether more time is needed on teaching particular concepts.

Experienced teachers will help students polish their skills in English, math, reading, writing and science, as well as develop test-taking techniques. The students also will practice solving problems in all subject areas, from figuring algebraic equations to analyzing scientific experiments. They will take sample tests to identify strengths and weaknesses, set goals and increase confidence as scores rise.

“It was very convenient because I could be involved without leaving home,” Haas said. “In today’s society, a lot of teenagers are online, so it’s easier to take the prep class online.”

The course fee is $179. Financial aid also is available for qualifying students.

To register or receive more information on courses taught in the classroom or online, call Laura Icardi of ACT Test Preparation at 330-722-7235, or email licardi@ACTTestPrep.info. Parents and students also can visit the website at www.ActTestPrep.info.