Tips+for+Video+Conferencing

=Be Prepared= =Connect Early= =Rehearse= =Collaborate Frequently= =Take Turns!=
 * It really helps the video conference experience if each class has a clear understanding of the expectations and responsibilities.
 * It is always a good idea to place a test call a few days in advance to ensure that all the equipment is working properly so changes can be made if necessary.
 * Most kids have not had a lot of experience communicating using cameras and displays. It is not a bad idea to rehearse the procedures and timings ahead of time so that the kids feel confident before making the actual connection.
 * Teachers should make regular contact via video conference or other means with each other to ensure that the process of preparing for the video conference is going well and make any adjustments as they see fit.
 * Video conferences can be a disaster if each class doesn't remain silent when it is the other class's turn to do the presenting. Extra talking gets really confusing over video conference. Take advantage of the mute feature of your video conference codec.