What do you need help with?
Getting Started
How do I find what I need?
From the Cengage homepage, select the Subscriptions button, which you’ll see when you hover over the drop-down Menu button to the top left of your screen.
Here you’ll see a list of your active subscriptions, including the PM eCollection Subscription if you have one. Find the Subscription you want to open and select the blue Manage button. This will take you to the Dashboard.
It’s helpful to familiarise yourself with the Dashboard when you’re getting started with your new subscription. Your eCollection Premium subscription has six tabs you can navigate. Find these options in the left-hand main navigation.
Want a quick tour? Watch the video, which will walk you through the PM eCollection tools.
How do I set up my account?
Your account is set up and ready to use from when you log in to the Subscriptions area of the website cengage.com.au/subscriptions.
Once you’ve logged in, you can make a start with adding teacher and student details from the Dashboard.
Logging into the Dashboard
As a teacher or administrator subscriber, you can access the Dashboard, easily set up student profiles, add teachers, create class groups, manage reading sessions and more. Access the Dashboard through the Cengage website (computer or laptop) using the instructions above, under ‘Getting Started’.
I’ve forgotten my login details
Your login username and password were what you used to set up your account. If you’ve forgotten what they are, click to ‘login’ from the Cengage eCollection site - https://cengage.com.au/pmecollection (at the top right of screen). Then, when the login pop-up appears, select ‘Forgot Password’.
Why can’t I click to ‘select books’?
If you’ve logged into your new Subscriber account for the first time you might notice a green ‘Select your books’ button with a tick next to it. This is pre-ticked because your subscription automatically includes the full range of 250 eReader titles. You can skip to adding Students and Teachers.
Adding a Teacher
An Administrator can set up and remove teacher access from eCollection. To do this, from the Dashboard, select Teachers from the left side menu.
From here you can:
1. View profile
2. Create teacher profile
3. Add teacher/s to a group
4. Delete teacher profiles.
To manually add an individual teacher profile, select Create Teacher Profile and fill in the details. Select Add Teacher to confirm. You’ll then get a confirmation message, and on the Teachers page, the new profile will appear with (pending) next to their name until they confirm their registration through their invitation email.
Bulk upload of Teacher details from Excel
If you would prefer to upload multiple teachers’ details through a spreadsheet file, you can also do this from the Dashboard – Teachers.
To do this, from Teachers select Create Teacher Profile from the left menu and then Bulk Upload from the next screen. You’ll see we’ve provided an upload template to download and complete. Once you’ve filled this out and saved it as a .XLS file, select ‘Browse’ to find and upload the file.
Other reasons your bulk upload might not be working:
1. You haven’t entered the data under each of the mandatory columns
2. You’ve accidentally entered spaces or extra characters in one or more cell
3. You haven’t saved the file in a standard .XLS format
4. The date format (dd/mm/yyyy) is incorrect
5. You’ve accidentally added formulas or unnecessary data to the spreadsheet.
If you’re still having trouble with the bulk upload function, you can choose the manual upload option instead. For further assistance, contact Customer Service.
Adding a Student
With the Premium subscription, Administrators and Teachers can add Students. One way you can do this is directly from the Dashboard screen. Select the option on the left side menu labelled Students.
Next, select the blue button ‘Create student profile’ and choose which upload method you’d prefer.
The manual form will allow you to set up each student’s details one by one, including the reading level, username and password.
To remove a student, return to the main Students page, select the checkbox next to the name, and on the left side menu click to ‘Delete student profile(s)’.
You can choose to set a unique Username and Password for each student. You can also drag the edges of the colourful reading level slider to set the reading levels the student can select from. Click ‘Add Student’ to complete the process.
Bulk upload of Student details from Excel
You might find it more efficient to upload multiple student details through a spreadsheet. To do this, from Students select ‘Create Student Profile’ from the left menu and then ‘Upload via spreadsheet’ from the next screen.
You’ll see we’ve provided an upload template to download and complete. Once you’ve filled this out and saved it as a .XLS file, select ‘Browse’ to find and upload the file.
Other reasons your bulk upload might not be working:
1. You haven’t entered the data under each of the mandatory columns
2. You’ve accidentally entered spaces or extra characters in one or more cell
3. You haven’t saved the file in a standard .XLS format
4. The date format (dd/mm/yyyy) is incorrect
5. You’ve accidentally added formulas or unnecessary data to the spreadsheet.
If you’re still having trouble with the bulk upload function, you can choose the manual upload option instead. For further assistance, contact Customer Service.
Using the eReader app
The eReader app is designed specifically for guided and independent reading. Its helpful features support Students using PM eBooks to learn to read.
The PM eCollection eReader app is available for iPad, Android tablets and on the web. Students use the eReader app for guided and independent reading. It comes with 250 of our most popular PM books, optimised for a digital screen.
For the iPad or tablet app: Download the eReader app in the App Store by searching PM eCollection. The app is free to download, but you will need your login details to access the subscriber content. Your Login is the same email and password used to purchase your subscription.
For your desktop or laptop: Head to https://app.pmecollection.com.au/login to access the eReader via a web browser.
Using My Words in the app
When you use the PM eReader, you’ll notice the My Words item in the top main menu next to My Bookshelf. My Words is used to help Students with new vocabulary by helping them build a list, hear the words or hear them in sentences.
Computer or laptop.
To add a new word to My Words from a PM book, hover over the word and right click it. A button highlighting the word will pop up with a list icon next to it. Simply click that icon and the word will be saved into My Words eReader app.
On the iPad app, add a word to My Words from the eReader by pressing on the word, holding and dragging it slightly. A button will appear which allows you to add the word to your list. You can delete words from the My Words list any time and continue to refresh the list by adding new words.
How do I find student usernames and passwords?
Students need usernames and passwords to log into their eReader.
The easiest way to find and share login details with your students is to use the Print student cards function. Select students individually by ticking the checkbox next to their name from the Students page, or hit Select All to print multiple students at once.
Once students have been selected, the blue Print Student Cards button will appear under the left-hand menu. Clicking or tapping this will take you to a page with the login details you need.
Account & Subscriptions
How do I buy a Subscription?
Go to cengage.com.au/pmecollection and select your subscription type. If you’d prefer to trial a subscription, you can also sign up here for a free 30-day trial. You’ll find the ‘Request Access’ button about half-way down the page, under the product comparison table.
What does the Premium Subscription include?
With the PM eCollection subscriptions, we’ve taken the pedagogically sound, carefully levelled PM books and digitised them for an even better learning and teaching experience.
Your premium subscription includes access to 250 eReader PM books for a full year. Your students will have access to useful digital features including My Words, drawing and annotating, listening and recording.
As the Teacher, you’ll be able to create and manage student profiles, reading sessions, words lists, student recordings and more.
What does the Starter Subscription include?
The Starter subscription includes access to the eReader platform pre-loaded with 250 popular PM book titles. The single user subscription includes audio and Independent Reading Mode.
The Starter subscription does not include the Student management website or dashboard that can be accessed by Premium subscribers.
With access to the full range of PM readers, the Starter subscription is ideal for parents and Students as a home reading and literacy tool.
How do I upgrade my Starter Subscription to Premium?
To upgrade your account to the full range of Premium features, please contact Customer Service. Our team can help transfer your subscription.
Do I need to have my subscription confirmed before the school year starts?
Many teachers like to get organised before the school year which is why it can be good to arrange your subscription ahead of time.
Subscriptions automatically include 12 months’ access. So, if you renew your subscription any time during your subscribed 12 months, an additional 12 months will be added, extending your current subscription.
Will my subscription roll into the new year?
No, you’ll need to renew your subscription if you want it to continue past the initial 12 months. You can do this easily from the Subscriptions page just by selection the orange ‘Renew’ button and completing the order and payment details.
How do I view my subscription details?
Your Dashboard has all the relevant subscription details and allows you to view your available licences , the purchase date, groups, students, teachers and sessions added, as well as any books selected.
For further information about your subscription, you can refer to the welcome email that was sent to your selected email address when you signed up and made a purchase.
How do I update my subscription details?
When you’re logged into the Cengage website, select the Dashboard button on the left of the top main menu stacked under Subscriptions.
From here you can select ‘Your Profile Settings’ from the left menu and update the details we have on file for your account.
Can I share my subscription with other teachers?
If your school already has an eCollection subscriber account, you shouldn’t need to share your subscription with other teachers. Just request that the account administrator adds you or your new colleague as a Teacher to gain access to the Premium features.
I don’t need access anymore
If your subscription is no longer needed, the Administrator who manages your school’s account can easily remove your details by going to Subscriptions, selecting Teachers from the Premium eCollection Dashboard and then checking the box against your name and removing. A new user can be added to replace the removed user.
Manage your Cart
Access your shopping cart by selecting the item on the top right of the main menu that says ‘Cart’. On this page, you’ll see any items you’ve already saved to your shopping cart or to your list. From Cart, you can view total costs, remove items or click the item to view its details.
My payment wasn't accepted
If you’re trying to make a purchase but there’s an issue with your payment, it may be a typo or simple error. Double check the details you’ve entered if you’re sure there are sufficient funds and the card hasn’t expired.
A payment issue could also be related to your web browser, so you could try opening the page on a different browser and processing the payment.
If you think the payment issue is for another reason, contact our Customer Service team who will be able to help.
How can I make a payment?
The Cengage website is designed to help you select and purchase your subscriptions easily and quickly.
Check your cart by selecting the shopping ‘Cart’ button to the top right of your screen. This will take you through the process with payment instructions.
If you’re having trouble with making an online payment and you’ve tried the steps under ‘My payment wasn’t accepted’, our Customer Service desk is contactable on weekdays between 7:00am-5:00pm (AEST) on 1300 790 853.
New Zealand customers can call 0800 449 725 from 9:00am-7:00pm weekdays. Alternatively, email anz.customerservice@cengage.com with customer service queries and we’ll get back to you within two business days.
How do I get a tax invoice or order history?
When you’re logged into the Cengage website, select the My Dashboard button on the left of the top main menu (stacked under ‘Subscriptions’).
From here you can select ‘Order History’ from the left menu and view details of your previous orders and invoices.
About the PMs
What are ‘levels’ and how are they determined?
The levelling system is an important aspect of the Cengage reading and literacy method. The underlying principle of levelling is simple: levelled book collections are organised according to a continuum of increased difficulty.
The levels are based on our own detailed criteria using objective controls such as vocabulary, word count and sentence structure as well as subjective controls developed by Cengage senior publishers.
How can I make sure the level is suitable for the student?
After getting to know the PM titles and Cengage resources, you’ll become familiar with the levels and be able to judge where to place your students.
We offer Guided Reading Resources and Reading Assessment Resources (RARs) which can help you determine the PM literacy stage of each student and extend their learning as their reading improves.
How do I select book packs?
If you purchased the 250 Book Premium or Starter subscription there’s no need to select your book pack. Skip to Add Teachers or Add Students.
Selecting specific books
Your Premium or Starter eCollection subscription is pre-loaded with the full 250 eReader titles. We periodically update and add to this collection.
How to purchase more PM readers and materials?
You can browse and shop the full library of PM readers and supporting materials from the Cengage website. Use the search bar from the home page or browse the collection using the drop-down Browse Series list. For purchasing enquiries or to get more information on products, speak to your Cengage Sales Representative.
Catalogues and brochures
Cengage Primary catalogues, brochures and flyers are available to view or download directly from the website at https://cengage.com.au/primary/catalogues-brochures-flyers
Samples and bonus resources
Head to Bonus Resources in the virtual Staffroom to access a range of free sample pages, activity sheets, audio clips, classroom aids and more. These handy resources are a fantastic addition to your teaching materials.
Reading Sessions & Groups
What is a 'Session'?
Reading sessions can be done in class or set as homework tasks for students. Reading sessions allow the teacher to assign set eBooks to individual students or groups to be read via the eReader:
1. Guided reading (audio and other features are disabled in the eBook)
2. Independent reading (all features are enabled).
What is a 'Group'?
Teachers can create student groups for guided reading sessions and the Benchmark assessments. Groups can be of any number, organised according to reading levels or however the teacher chooses.
How do I set up a Group?
To edit, add or remove groups, select Groups on the left main menu once you’re logged into the Subscriptions page. If it’s your first group, you’ll click ‘Create the first one now’.
You’ll then need to complete the fields: name the group, select the teacher and add students to the group by clicking the checkbox next to their names. The blue ‘Create Group’ button will then save your selection as a new Group.
How do I create a Session?
To start a session, go to Sessions on the left main menu of the Dashboard. If it’s your first session, you’ll click ‘Create the first one now’.
From here, you can Add Students, Add Groups, Add Teachers, Attach books, select Guided or Independent, add Notes, or choose a session name and dates.
When a reading session is created, it will automatically appear on the eReader of the teachers and students who have been added to the session, on the start date selected.
The reading session will disappear from the eReader on the end date you’ve selected. You’ll still be able to view all details on the Sessions page under ‘finished sessions’.
Manage your Sessions
To create a reading session, make sure that you’ve already uploaded Student details. Then, from the Dashboard, select the blue ‘Create a reading session’ button from the left side menu.
How do I view past Sessions?
To look at both active and finished reading sessions, just select Sessions from the left main menu when you’re logged into your Dashboard. You’ll see past reading sessions listed under ‘finished sessions’.
How do I extend a reading session?
You can update the length of a reading session and extend the date by going to the Sessions tab from the Subscriptions area. Select the session you’d like to extend and click the Edit button.
Then, scroll down to alter the date range next to ‘This session ends’, and select the new date you’d like. Select the blue Save Session button to complete.
How do I listen to a Student recording?
1. From the Students page, find the student profile you want to view, and select View Profile.
2. On the profile page, you’ll see a blue square under the coloured slider called Recordings Made.
3. Select Recordings Made in the blue square.
4. Select Play all to listen to all recordings or select the play icon next to the individual page to listen to a single recording.
5. Select Back to profile to exit.
How do I find student usernames and passwords?
Students need usernames and passwords to log into their eReader.
The easiest way to find and share student login details is to use the Print student cards function. Select students individually by ticking the checkbox next to their name from the Students page, or hit Select All to print multiple students at once.
Once students have been selected, the blue Print Student Cards button will appear under the left-hand menu. Clicking or tapping this will take you to a page with the login details you need.
Using the eReader on an iPad or tablet
Note that you’ll need a subscription to access the resources available in the eReader app.
Downloading the app
1. Make sure your iPad is connected to either a WiFi network or your provider’s mobile data network to download the app
2. Tap the App Store icon
3. Using the search bar, type and search PM eCollection (not case sensitive)
4. To download the app, tap Get. Then once it’s downloaded, you should be able to find the new app on your iPad alongside your other apps.
Signing into the app
1. Tap the PM eCollection iPad app to open it
2. Tap the Login button
3. Enter your username and password and tap Login.
Receiving your physical order
When will I receive my order by post or courier?
You should receive your order within 3-7 working days depending on your location. Orders to rural areas could take a little longer, while orders to New Zealand should arrive within 5-9 working days.
If your order hasn’t been received within the expected time frame, please get in touch with our Customer Service team and quote your order number.
When will I receive an item on back order?
Out of stock items will be placed on back order and supplied as soon as the stock is available. Estimated delivery times for back order items can vary. If you would like an ETA on your item, please contact Customer Service and quote your order number.
How can I track my order?
If you’d like to enquire about the delivery status of your order, please contact Customer Service for a tracking update.
How much do you charge for delivery?
Orders placed through the website include free shipping.
How do I replace a lost or damaged PM reader?
Replace your damaged or missing PM readers can by reordering online through the website at https://cengage.com.au/primary
Find the PM reader you need to reorder through the search bar. Or browse the full product range using the ‘Browse Series’ drop-down options. Add your chosen item to the Cart and complete the checkout process. Your Cengage Sales Representative can also help with any product order requests and would be happy to assist you.
Currently, PM readers belonging to the Benchmark RAR collections are not available for individual sale. Please contact Customer Service if your request relates to one of these titles.
Helping students use the PMs at home
Independent reading sessions
Setting up independent reading sessions through your Dashboard is a great way to set home reading tasks for students. You can set these sessions for individual students as well as groups.
You might want to use the ‘notes’ function in Create a reading session to add tips or instructions for students and their guardians.
The selected PM reader(s) will automatically appear in the student’s eReader app on when they log into the web browser version.
The eReader for home reading
The eReader is a great way for students to continue their reading at home. Students will need access to the Internet via an iPad, tablet or computer.
• Make sure that each Student has their username and password details before you set any home reading tasks
• If the Student is accessing the eCollection on an iPad or tablet, they can download the free PM eCollection app
• Students using a computer can log in directly through the Cengage website and Subscriptions page.
The PM eCollection eReader app is available for iPad, Android tablets and on the web. Students use the eReader app for guided and independent reading. It comes with 250 of our most popular PM books, optimised for a digital screen.
For the iPad or tablet app: Download the eReader app in the App Store by searching PM eCollection. The app is free to download, but you will need your login details to access the subscriber content. Your Login is the same email and password used to purchase your subscription.
Technical requirements
Help! I’m not able to access the PM or Cengage resources on my school computer network
If access to external websites is blocked or restricted, please request the following domain links to be whitelisted by your IT department for full PM eCollection functionality:
https://ssl.google-analytics.com
https://.pmecollection.com.au
https://.cengage.com.au
https://ws.nelsoncengage.com.au
https://ws.cengagelearning.com.au
Minimum system requirements
Check that you’re running at least version 2.1.0 of the app.
Recommended operating systems:
Win 7, 9, 10
Mac Latest - 1
iOS 8, 9, 10, 11
Supported browsers:
Chrome (latest)
Firefox (latest)
Safari (latest)
Internet Explorer 11
Microsoft EDGE
If you’re still experiencing any issues, please get in touch with our Customer Service team.
Accessibility
Materials for students with a disability
Cengage is committed to making educational materials accessible to learners of all abilities. If one or more of your students has a disability that prevents them from using the formats on offer, access and submit this form to Cengage https://cengage.com.au/accessibility
Assessments
The PM Benchmark RAR
The PM Benchmark Reading Assessment Resources are designed to guide reading instruction and assessment by matching students to their instructional reading level. It also provides simple tools to support teachers in their assessment and recording.
The PM Benchmark RARs has its own online dashboard where you can upload, manage and track student details. You can use Benchmark to directly launch assessments and record a student’s progress and level of understanding.
Professional learning & development
Attending a free product session
Did you know that Cengage offers free product training sessions across Australia? These workshops are carefully designed and delivered to help you enhance learning outcomes using the PM eCollection and our other products and resources.
For more information or to find a session near you, visit the product sessions page https://cengage.com.au/primary/product-session-registration
Privacy & security
Cengage is committed to the responsible and transparent use of private information. We recognise the importance of privacy to the community and to individuals who trust us with their personal and sensitive information. We commit to treating this information in a lawful and responsible manner.
What kind of information does Cengage collect?
The personal information that Cengage Learning Australia may collect about you includes (but is not limited to) your name, email address, phone number, address, gender, age, date of birth, and occupation.
We may hold personal information for the purposes of administering the terms of your contractual arrangement (e.g. verifying your identity), and financial information (such as your credit card details) for the purposes of conducting business transactions with you.
To understand how we use private information and our commitment to privacy and security, read the full privacy statement.
Contact Us
You can contact Customer Service between 7:00am-5:00pm (AEST) on 1300 790 853.
New Zealand customers can call 0800 449 725 from 9:00am-7:00pm weekdays.
Or email anz.customerservice@cengage.com with customer service queries and we’ll aim to respond within 24 hours. Response times can be slightly longer during peak times (e.g. start of a school year).