Can You Hear Me Now?

4/6/2020

Historically, when I've written about video, it's been about teacher-created video being used within the classroom. (See this page for tips and tricks around creating multimedia.)

However, because many teachers new to online learning are trying to replicate what takes place in a traditional classroom, they have been trying to use synchronous tools (i.e. video conferencing) with their staff and with their students.

This has come with its own set of challenges - ranging from access to secure and strong internet signals, appropriate use of the technology, mindfulness and awareness of surroundings, and the overall challenge of trying to replicate a "normal day" in a time that is anything but.

Regardless of the level of experience you have with using an online conferencing tool, like Zoom, or Google Meets or Skype, someone involved in the meeting is bound to run into a technical issue.

Don't let this derail the meeting. If someone cannot hear or see, make a note of it, and connect with that person one-on-one after the session.

Do's & Don'ts for Video Conferencing

Do: Mute your microphone whenever you’re not speaking, even if you’re alone in the room. Background noise can be an annoying distraction.

Do: Be aware of your video settings. Check if your microphone is muted before delivering a two-minute monologue that no one will hear.

Don’t: Position your camera too low, too high or hooked onto a different monitor. Weird camera angles can be very distracting. Make sure your camera is eye level and on the monitor you plan to use for the conference.

Do: Make sure your room is well lit (side lighting is the best). Use natural light from windows or simply turn on the overhead light in the room to brighten up the conference.

Do: Wear appropriate clothing. I know it can be tempting to wear a work shirt and athletic shorts but dress as if you're meeting face to face. Wear clean, professional clothing for your video calls.

Do: Your wall art or decorations should be work-appropriate and your surroundings clean. This also includes your desk! Avoid having multiple coffee mugs, dishes and trash on the surface.

Do: Test your microphone before you video call by video conferencing a colleague before the meeting. Nothing is worse than trying to share something critical, and not being able to communicate clearly because your audio clarity and volume are poor.

Do: If you're in a group call without video, introduce yourself before you talk. Consider something like "Hi it’s Jim, I have a question.” Be polite and introduce yourself.

Don’t: Check or read emails or peruse articles while on the video call. This also includes doing additional work beyond the call. It’s easy for other participants to tell if you aren't fully focused and present during the video call.

Do: When you're talking, look into the camera instead of looking at yourself talking on the computer screen. It will help others on the call feel like you're 100 percent engaged and present.

It’s important to remember that video conferences are essentially in-person interactions that allow you to communicate more effectively.

The Biggest Dos and Don'ts of Video Conferencing
Adapted from Bryan Lovgren, 2017

HELPFUL LINKS

How wonderful it could be if educators, parents and students continue to see the value in online conferencing, even once this current COVID-19 crisis is over.
Videoconferencing technology has the ability to bridge the gap of distance and time, and can be used in a plethora of successful ways in any K-12 classroom.

Until next time, take good care.

-M

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