How do I use technology safely and appropriately for remote learning?
It is important to know that your participation in a Virtual Meeting or classroom collaboration is visible to all students and teachers in your class. However, Holmesglen takes student privacy very seriously.
- Recording of sessions - Sometimes your teacher may want to record your virtual meeting. Your teacher should tell you about this before commencing the session. If you feel apprehensive about being recorded, it is ok for you to mute your microphone and turn off your video. In this way you become an inactive participant.
- Sensitive information - Remember not to broadcast any sensitive information like passwords, phone numbers, addresses and date of birth.
- Anti-virus software - For your online safety we recommend that you run antivirus scans regularly and keep your antivirus software up to date.
Where should I set up my remote learning space?
Where you locate your remote learning environment or study space is important and will have an impact on your learning. It’s important to find a space that is quiet, comfortable, and has enough room for your computer and study materials.
When finding a suitable space, think about:
- location
- access to study materials
- getting organised
- your study plan
- reducing distractions
- recharging – your devices and yourself!
Should I change my routine for remote learning?
You may be experiencing a change to your regular daily routine, but you should try to stay calm and follow your regular routine as much as possible. This means:
- getting up and dressed at a regular time each day
- eating and drinking healthy meals and food (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks)
- taking regular breaks during your day
- making enough time available for your learning to get your work done.
What equipment do I need in my remote learning space?
- Textbooks, stationery (papers, notepad, pens, and so on)
- Desktop PC or laptop computer with:
- Windows 10 or later, Mac OS X 10 or above, installed with current versions of internet browsers Chrome, Firefox, or Safari
- A good internet connection. Check your internet speeds, via the Webex Network Test. If you diagnose an upload speed of less than 5 mbps we recommend that you turn off your webcam.
- Audio headset – this is essential as you are likely to be involved in discussions with your teacher and other students.
- A webcam is optional but does allow you to engage more fully with other people. To participate with both audio and video, you will need headphones or earphones with a microphone, and a webcam with at least 720p for video.
- For the purposes of simple video conferencing, mobile devices such as smart phones or tablets do work, but your ability to collaborate with others will be limited.
- Make sure your space has power points for your computer or devices, a power cord with surge protector, and internet access. Ergonomic desk and chairs are advisable and optional are mouse, mouse mats, additional screens, depending on your space and availability.
- See our Knowledge Base article on how to test your webcam and headset for Webex
How can I participate positively in my remote learning?
To provide the best learning experience:
- close any applications and browser sessions
- ensure your web camera and headset are functioning correctly
- mute the microphone when you’re not talking - it’s good meeting etiquette
- turn off your camera if you are experiencing any audio or video issues.
Whether you are in face-to-face online meetings, or in a discussion/chat room, there are appropriate and inappropriate behaviours.
Here are six guidelines for positive behaviour online:
- Be respectful
- Do your work
- Be on time and set up ready to go
- Participate actively and positively
- Use your own work
- Be an active member of the remote learning community
