Getting Started with Videoconferencing

• To get started, first find out if you have two way interactive capability. If you are in Michigan, contact your technology coordinator or your ISD/REMC.
• Find a field trip. You can search Berrien RESA VC Content Providers Database.
• Secure funding for the field trip. Make sure you know how the field trip will be paid for. Consider the following: content provider costs, line fees and transportation costs if your students will be traveling to a different location in order to participate in the field trip. Some districts may have mini-grants available.
• To schedule, check on scheduling your distance learning room or equipment. Contact your local technology coordinator. Then schedule the content provider. You'll find registration information at the content providers site.
• Contact the remote site/content provider to set lesson objectives, provide technical information about your codec and schedule a test call if you haven't connected to them before. Exchange phone numbers in case of a problem when connecting.
• Schedule the distance learning classroom or equipment if it is portable.
• Familiarize yourself with the equipment. Meet with the person who will be helping you during the video conference if one is available. If you have an opportunity before the video conference takes place, demonstrate the technology to your students. Have the students practice using the equipment before the actual day of the conference.
• Consider how the room is set up, camera locations, furniture, etc.
• Prepare your students for the field trip. Talk to your students about the video and audio during the connection. The video may be a little jerky or pixels may appear. There will be a slight delay in the audio so it's important to pause before speaking so you don't talk over the other site. Room or ceiling microphones are very sensitive. The other site may be able to hear you whisper to a classmate. Have students prepare questions on index cards ahead of time if possible. This helps keep the students focused and eliminates duplicate questions. Teachers should be ready to facilitate the activity with their students. Share expectations of the connection time events and behavior. Do any preparation activities suggested/required by the field trip site. If your materials are being used on camera, design them with a large font, print in landscape mode and use pastel paper.
• Connect with remote site at least 15 minutes prior to the start time. You may not record the field trip unless permission is granted by content provider. Copyright laws should be followed.
• Stay focused on your objectives and have fun!
• Do the post activities if provided.
• Evaluate the field trip afterwards to contribute to the knowledge about providers.
• Browse these additional tips on video conferencing.