Part 1 - Before the Videoconference Event

Before the actual videoconference event (author visit, virtual field trip, class, workshop, etc.), prepare students by:

  • Introducing them to videoconferencing protocol
  • Having them practice introducing themselves and speaking loudly and clearly into a microphone  Having them research information on the web, at the library, or by emailing the presenter in advance
  • Having them come up with thoughtful questions
    • Make sure they write them down, so that they can read them during the videoconference itself
If possible, contact the presenter beforehand to make sure that the content he/she will present is consistent with the goals of the lesson.  The videoconference should be part of a process that leads to the production of a product on the part of the students such as a report, a story, a PowerPoint presentation, or a project of some type.  The teacher should work with the presenter to make sure that this will occur.  The best possible scenario is for teachers to videoconference themselves with the presenter BEFORE the student event takes place. The better prepared the students are, the better the videoconference will go and the more learning will take place.

You may want your students to sign a behavior contract before they participate in the videoconference.

Handout for Students Participating in a Videoconference

Tips for Teachers

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