DESCRIPTION 

Using a closed-circuit network, two (or more) sites communicate with each other through video cameras and microphones, allowing the instructor and students at the originating site to fully interact with the students at the receiving site(s). At first, you will be conscious of the technology, but after a short while, you’ll forget it is there. Each classroom is equipped with video cameras that allow participants at different sites to see one another. One camera in the room shows students at the other site a view of your classroom. A second camera is focused on the front of the room and the person who is presenting material. A third camera, the document camera, takes the place of the traditional overhead projector and focuses on any information the presenter wishes to share with the class. You may notice that the quality of the video, while excellent, is not exactly the same quality you see on your television screen at home. This is because the network is using “compressed video” technology. The only noticeable difference you may detect will be a slight “strobe” effect when someone makes a quick movement in front of the camera. 

USING VIDEOCONFERENCING 

The classrooms are equipped with voice-activated microphones. These microphones allow you to communicate with other participants. The microphones are extremely sensitive. Therefore, any pencil tapping, paper shuffling, or side comments to a friend may cause the microphone to activate. To decrease distractions, you will want to keep background noise to a minimum and/or mute the microphones when you are not speaking to the group. The most noticeable effect of the compressed video technology is a time delay in verbal transmissions. This time period will have to be accommodated for interactive communications. Therefore, if you pose a question to the participants on the other end of the telecommunications link, you should expect to “wait” a few seconds for their response. Hand gestures are also helpful to get the attention of the speaker and let them know that you have something to contribute. It is also helpful if the speaker makes hand gestures to “yield the floor” to someone else. 

ADDITIONAL POINTERS 

1. Announce your name and campus each time you speak. 

2. Maintain eye contact with the camera when you are speaking. 

3. Speak clearly and loudly - project your voice. 

4. Avoid quick/sudden movements. 

5. Use the “mute” function when not participating. 

6. Don’t be afraid of camera “close-ups” especially in small classes 

7. If you are presenting, try not to pace in front of the camera. 

8. If presenting, avoid white or cream colors, busy patterns, and shiny jewelry in your attire. 

9. To maximize classroom cohesion and participation in a multi-location class, do not sit in the back of the room or spread out throughout the room, this makes it extremely difficult for the instructor and others to view and interact with students at other locations.