Make your lesson as smooth and enjoyable as possible by keeping the following guidelines in mind:
Student Interaction:
- Although videoconferencing might look like television, it differs in that it is a live two-way interaction. Let students know they are expected to ask and answer questions, and participate in activities.
- Plan to take an active role in the lesson as well, calling upon students and repeating questions and comments if students are far from the microphone.
- If possible, please make sure that all students can been seen on camera during the lesson. Also, try to place microphones in such a way that all students may be clearly heard.
Making the Most of Your Lesson:
- If possible, set up your videoconferencing environment to resemble your normal classroom environment. This simply maintains the kind of structure students are used to and creates a familiar atmosphere that signifies learning.
- It might be helpful for students to have paper and pencil available for participation in various activities or taking notes.
- If you or your students have not yet experienced a videoconference, it is a good idea to become acquainted with the equipment prior to the lesson date. This allows everyone to get used to the camera, microphones, etc.
Operating the Equipment:
- Please be mindful of the Museum staff when operating the camera. Moving the camera too quickly around the room or zooming in and out on the students at a rapid pace can be disruptive to the lesson.
- Avoid focusing the camera too closely on any one particular student, as many older students (middle school and beyond) become quite shy or act out in these situations. This tends to hamper an effective dialogue between the students and the Museum staff.
For more information, please contact Distance Learning by phone at (215) 684-7333, by fax at (215) 236-4063, or by e-mail at .
