The following are questions and statements to consider when planning for communication and interaction in a videoconference course:
- Consider listing or describing the session communication methods at the start of the session. Some systems allow for virtual raised hands that appear as small icons on the screen. These icons may appear when you are not looking or may otherwise be difficult to notice, so you may want to encourage participants to hold up something brightly colored to gain your attention instead. Other systems allow for chat communication, so you will have to frequently monitor that space and respond to these text-based communications.
- Anticipate what types of interaction will occur:
- How will the interaction occur? (Videoconference session? Website? Box?)
- Does the interaction support your learning objectives and goals?
- Ensure support materials are available for class activities.
- Decide if activities will be individual or group based.
- Determine if groups will be local (all in the same physical room) or if they will be a mix of some in the same physical room and some in the remote location via the videoconferencing system. Local groups are easier to manage, as they do not need to rely on the videoconferencing equipment to converse.
- Note: Keep in mind that you may have several physically distant sites that each consist of a single group that shares the same physical room.
- Will individuals or groups share the results of their activities with others?
- Create a contact list for each location. Use name tents so participants learn the names of their classmates regardless of location. Make sure the name tents are readable from all locations.
- If you have several remote locations, select a moderator at each location to submit questions. A moderator at your location can alert you to a question that comes up so you can give time to that remote group of participants. The moderator role should be rotated among participants so one participant doesn’t become the “gatekeeper” for his or her group.