Using online platforms

If you are just starting online teaching , do start small with activities you are comfortable with, particularly during the early sessions. The most important thing is to give students a good experience of online learning, without technology getting in the way.

How do I connect with students?

You will need

A good internet connection
A laptop or desktop computer with a camera and microphone (these are usually built in with laptops, but are separate on desktops). Ipads and phones are not suitable as they only have limited functionality on Zoom.
If you are teaaching a movement class, or similar, it will help if you have a second freestanding camera and headphones so people can see you as you move around the room

Most tutors use both of these online platforms to teach:

Zoom or Google Meet – videoconferencing platforms which allow you to hold ‘live classes’ with your learners.
Google Classroom – a Google site just for your course where your students can access materials and activities.

Starting with Zoom

Zoom allows you to have a virtual meeting with your students online at the same time.

As a tutor, you will be allocated your own Zoom Account. Your department will help you to access Zoom and with your username and password. Your students will be sent links and passwords for your class automatically.

Zoom has features such as

share screen
chat box
closed captions (subtitles)
breakout rooms
whiteboard

To find out how to set up and use Zoom choose one of the tabs on the right,

Using Zoom

Using Google Classroom

Starting with Google Classroom.

Google classroom is a virtual learning environment (or a special site just for your students) which allows you to communicate with students as a group, and to upload handouts, activities and resources for the whole class.

Students are provided with their Google classroom code and details on how to log on in their reminder email before the course starts.

To find out how to access and set up Google Classroom go to the link on the left.

If you are new to Google Classroom, follow the guidance for the basics. You can come back to review the more advanced features later.

Training and support

Training in using online platforms is available cross college and within departments.

Contact your department to find out what help is available.
Look out for the Tutor Development and Support Bulletin in your City Lit emails, or contact tutor.development@citylit.ac.uk
City Lit Teaching and Working Remotely website is updated regularly with information and advice on online learning. Find it here: https://sites.google.com/citylit.ac.uk/teaching-working-remotely/home
You can also contact digital.learning@citylit.ac.uk for help

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