If you're using a host who just gives you web hosting and not SSH (I assume this is the case or the point of your question would be nullified) then you'll almost certainly find you cannot run them as the host will have configured it this way.
It is worth noting also that if you are on a cPanel host, whilst they may offer ssh access php execution will definitely be disabled still with no ability to enable.
Finally, if it's just a case of your tutor hosts his own server you'll find he can enable the execution of shell commands within php, however again if he were to do this... he may as well just GIVE you shell access.