By Owl Labs
As remote and hybrid technology continue to be a reality for many schools, educators are continuing to hone their video conferencing skills. Video conferencing apps and classroom cameras – like the Meeting Owl Pro – have allowed some educators to continue important staff meetings and teaching students with a cohesive learning experience, even during the pandemic.
Here are a few video conferencing tips to create the optimal hybrid environment in your school:
1. Familiarise yourself with the new tech tools
Be sure to get to know your technology to avoid running into tech roadblocks. For educators who are new to hybrid technology, there is a natural learning curve before they are completely comfortable in their new roles – and that’s okay. IT is there to help. Have an IT team member on call in case any spontaneous tech problems need addressing during key times.
2. Remember, this is new to everyone
Start sessions by checking in with remote attendees to ensure all of their tech is working properly and they can participate to the fullest extent. Staff/students who aren’t comfortable with technology or without any support may struggle to adapt to new tools or online expectations. Offer ample time for participants to ask questions and adjust to new ways of participating in school.
3. Establish communication rules
Have clear communication rules for on-site and remote attendees to ensure everyone in the session feels heard and seen. One example: have remote attendees mute themselves when they are not speaking if their environments are noisy and distracting.
4. Make eye contact
Remember, it’s important to make eye contact with the camera as well as on-site, to further engage remote attendees. This can be tricky, however, the right tech can make things a lot easier. Our Meeting Owl Pro’s Presenter Enhance feature tracks the active presenter so that remote attendees can follow the discussion and allows the presenter to walk around the room naturally vs. being stuck at their laptop.
5. Engage with all attendees – onsite and remote
The most successful hybrid sessions are cohesive and engaging. By crafting sessions that engage with both your on-site and remote attendees, educators are able to use hybrid technology as a tool to further engagement, as opposed to viewing it as a barrier to overcome.
Looking to equip your school with hybrid tech? Check out our Meeting Owl Pro.
By Owl Labs
9 December 2021