- Appropriate clothing is important.
- Solid colors are best. Stripes and patterns may cause poor video camera performance.
- Avoid wearing shirts with words written on them. Words can be distracting to the participants.
- Do not wear jewelry that reflects light or makes noise, such as bangles or loose chains.
- Reduce environmental noise. Microphones can intensify these normal sounds. Turn off fans, close windows and doors, mute cell phones, lower volume on office telephones and computer alert sounds for incoming mail and instant messages.
- If you are using a computer to run the videoconferencing session:
- Reboot the system at least several hours before the session.
- Turn off all unnecessary programs to save bandwidth and to reduce the chance of a system crash.
- Check your microphone and speakers/headset to make sure they are operating properly.
- If possible, wear a miked headset instead of using external mikes and speakers to avoid audio feedback.
- Play some music prior to the start of the session to let participants know that the audio is working and to set a relaxed mood.
- If appropriate, have participants introduce themselves and/or their sites and locations.
- If you are using a room-based system:
- Visit the room where you will be conducting the session. Note the areas of the room where you will be teaching to make sure that the camera is set to view those areas. If your camera supports presets and you have not yet set them, now is the time to do so.
- Try to show the entire room so remote participants have an idea of the size and layout of the local participants’ room.
- Note the microphone locations in the room so you can adjust participant placement and microphone use appropriately.