Teacher Leader February 2009

Niki McQuillan

Why Videoconference?

Provides opportunities for

• social interaction - communicating with a real audience

• dynamic learning environment

• extends the classroom environment

• develops TS and PC

• sharing the learning-collaboration

Why videoconference?Provides opportunities for:

• shared experiences and understanding

• cultural development

• build relationships

• expert in the classroom-JANET

• provides meaningful focus for ICT skills

Resources

• Marratech web-based conferencing software

• Logitech camera to transmit video and audio signal

• Logitech PC Headset (for 1 to 1 conferencing)

Why plan?Motivation• effectiveness and enjoyment

• creating a television studio in classroom

• audience participation-demands high level of interaction

• presenting to a live audience-content critical

Planning a videoconference

Content• avoid long slots of talking heads

• invite an expert: perspective/opportunity for questions

• Extending/sharing the learning experience

Planning a videoconferenceContent• agree a running order – structure (top and

tail) • expected learning outcomes

• estimate timings: short sequences keep pace

• range of resources • application sharing

Preparation

Drama Activities

• icebreakers

• voice work

• facial expression/gesture

• performance/role play

• presenting

PreparationWriting Activities

• for a real target audience

• to deadlines

• using appropriate style and language

• storyboarding

PreparationDeveloping TS and PC

Managing Information: research/discussion of content

Problem Solving/Decision Making: developing the programme/timings

• Working With Others:

the production team

Being Creative:

the production process

Presentationthe netiquette of videoconferencing

Visionto maximise picture quality and prevent breaks in the

audio • avoid frequent/rapid movement• body language/gestures• stage-manage speakers• backgrounds; avoid detail, strong colours and patterns• pastel colours work best• seating for audience: in shot?• Presenters should avoid clothing with obvious patterns

Presentation

Audio• avoid interrupting speakers

• speak in complete thoughts/obvious conclusion

• speak slowly in a strong, clear voice: foreign audience?

• use visual and not verbal affirmations

PresentationMaintaining audience interest• eye contact: keep eye-line to camera

• talk directly to audience

• camera shots: avoid very wide shots and big close ups

• avoid panning and zooming

• don’t be too wooden

• avoid long sessions of talking heads