Embedded Files
The "Getting Started" section walks you through the basics to kick off your virtual teaching journey at Brilliant Microschools. It covers tech setup, communication channels, and all the resources you'll need to make your virtual classroom a hit.
Setup Your Virtual Environment
Setup Your Virtual Environment
Quiet Space: Set up a quiet workspace with a pleasant background, good lighting, and minimal noise to promote focus and engagement.
Powerful Computer: Equip yourself with a computer or laptop with sufficient processing power (at least an Intel Core i5 or equivalent), 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage for running necessary applications and participating in online learning activities. You should not use a Chromebook or tablet. Instead, you need to use a high-performance laptop or desktop.
Reliable High-Speed Internet: Ensure a stable, high-speed internet connection (minimum 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload) for smooth video streaming and uninterrupted communication during class sessions.
Quality Camera: Use a high-resolution, 1080p (or better) webcam (external ones often provide better quality) for clear video, effective communication, and engagement during virtual classes.
Digital Writing Pad: Use a writing pad or tablet with a stylus (recommendation here) for creating and sharing digital notes, diagrams, or illustrations in real-time, facilitating students' understanding of complex concepts.
Basic Apps (45 minutes)
Setting Up Gmail
Setting Up Gmail
Use your assigned brilliantmicroschool.org email for all school-related communications.
Add one of the suggested email signatures to your Gmail account.
Setting Slack Notifications
Setting Slack Notifications
Download the Slack app on your phone. This is very helpful when you are teaching and need to respond to an urgent message.
Adjust notification settings to balance timely updates and minimize distractions. We recommend you set @Mentions for your House support channel and set All Messages for the Announcements channel. You can choose your settings for the Lounge and Grade-band channels. Learn more about houses and channel types on the community page.
Make sure to add a profile picture and a fun description to your Slack profile.
Getting Comfortable With Zoom
Getting Comfortable With Zoom
We conduct all our sessions on Zoom, so it is important to be fluent in its use. If you are not 100% fluent in using Zoom, please watch the first and second video.
The third, fourth, and fifth videos must be watched by all incoming teachers, as muting students and sharing screens are key skills you will need.
Activating a ScreenRec Account
Activating a ScreenRec Account
ScreenRec is a simple and effective tool for creating quick video recordings to support clear communication.
To activate your ScreenRec account, click the link below, select "Get it Free," and follow the on-screen instructions. Be sure to use your school email address when signing up.
Activate your ScreenRec account here.
Support
If you encounter any issues or need further assistance, please contact Nicolas for support.
Mastery Check 2
Mastery Check 2
For Microschool Teachers
You've spent some time reading the "Basic Tools" section, so let's put your understanding to the test with a fun activity! Take 15 minutes to create a brief 1-to-3-minute video introduction to your virtual classroom using Loom, showcasing how you've applied the core concepts discussed in this section. In the 1-to-3-minute video, please include:
A glimpse of your well-lit, quiet workspace with a pleasant background.
A short introduction to your students that you can post on your Toddle Classroom or send to them via email.
Feel free to be creative, add some humor or fun elements, and make it engaging for your students and their parents. Above all, be yourself! Once you are done, please share the video link on Slack. Just so you know, this is just a Mastery Check. No one except the people you share with on Slack will see the video. Good luck!
Onboarding Nearpod 2
Onboarding Nearpod 2
For Microschool Teachers, Tutoring Group Teachers
If you are viewing this content for the first time, click on the Nearpod.
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