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New Self-Paced Study Experience

Virtual Workshops are changing - what to expect

Jessica Ritter avatar
Written by Jessica Ritter
Updated this week

Virtual Workshops Are Evolving: Introducing a New Self-Paced Study Experience

What’s Changing

Beginning November 30, 2025, we’re transitioning away from live Virtual Workshops and introducing a new self-paced case study feature designed to give you the same depth of learning with added flexibility!

  • Virtual Workshops will end on November 30, 2025.

  • Our new NCARB-inspired case study feature will launch early December 2025, and will be automatically included in all Expert subscriptions - no action required on your part.

This evolution is based on feedback from our customers, who shared that they wanted more flexible, self-paced study options while still getting the same rigorous content and real-world application.


Why We’re Making This Change

Virtual Workshops have been a cornerstone of the Black Spectacles study experience, helping thousands of candidates deepen their understanding through live, instructor-led sessions. Over time, we heard from learners that:

  • Their schedules made it hard to consistently attend live sessions.

  • They wanted more control to revisit complex topics on their own time.

  • They valued the real-world scenarios from Workshops and wanted even more opportunities to apply their knowledge.

The new case study feature builds on the most effective elements of Virtual Workshops - scenario-based practice and applied learning - while allowing you to learn at your own pace.


FAQs

Q: When is the last day I can attend a live Virtual Workshop?

A: The final Virtual Workshop will take place on November 30, 2025. After that date, live sessions will no longer be available.

Q: When does the final cycle of Virtual Workshops begin?

A: The final 8-week series of Virtual Workshops begin on Sunday, October 12, 2025 at 2-4pm Central.

Q:Where can I see upcoming Virtual Workshops?

A: You can view all upcoming Virtual Workshops and RSVP directly from your dashboard.

Q: Can I still watch recordings after Workshops end?

A: Replays will be available for one week following each live session. The final replay will expire on Sunday, December 7, 2025 at midnight Central.

Q: What is the new case study feature?

A: It’s a self-paced, scenario-based practice tool designed to help you apply your knowledge to real-world situations - similar to what you might encounter on the ARE.

Q: When will the new feature be available?

A: The feature will be released in early December 2025.

Q: Will I need to upgrade my subscription?

A: No. The new case study feature will be automatically included in all Expert subscriptions.

Q: Why are Virtual Workshops being replaced?

A: The change is based on direct feedback from our members. Learners told us that they wanted more flexibility, the ability to study on their own schedule, and deeper practice on difficult topics.

Q: How does this work with the Pass the ARE Guarantee?

A: This feature will replace the Virtual Workshops, each new self-paced case study feature for your division will need to be completed to qualify for the Pass the ARE Guarantee.

Q: Where can I learn more?

A: We’ll be sharing more details through email updates, your dashboard, and here in the Help Center in the coming weeks. Keep an eye out for sneak peeks and feature previews as we get closer to launch.


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