You have been selected to participate in a series of discussions over videoconferencing equipment this year.  Before the first session, you need to know some rules (protocol) about how this works.

1. You will only see the person who is speaking on your TV.  When another person speaks, the TV screen will flip to that person.  The TV, then, is voice activated.
2. It is very important to TAKE TURNS talking.
3. The teacher will not be able to see you raise your hand if you want to talk.  Instead, he will do a roll call.
4. When the teacher calls on your school, speak clearly and distinctly into the microphone.  Before you make your comment or ask your question, introduce yourself.  Say, "This is (your name) from (your school name), and I have a comment."  By the time you say all this, the TV will have changed to show you.
5. Make sure that when your school is not talking your microphone is turned off.
6. Do not carry on side conversations.  It is hard to hear the other sites when others around you are talking.
7. Make a tent sign with your name on it in large print and put it in front of you  so that the teacher can see who you are and call on you by name.  If you are not sitting at a table, take your name sign up with you to the microphone when you speak.
8. Remember, these sessions are being videotaped.  Others will watch the tapes and be able to see what you do.  Make a good impression.
9. Most importantly, BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHERS.

We hope you have a good experience with videoconferencing, and by following these few rules, we can make the whole process a smooth one.