Using live video in a virtual classroom

Instructions for teachers

• It is advisable to go over the ground rules and remote teaching guidelines during the first virtual classroom session.
• Adhere to the data protection guidelines that apply to the video conferencing platform concerning, for example, the invitation and meeting settings.
• Send the instructions for joining the virtual session to your students in advance (for example, include them in the calendar invitation).
• It is important that all the participants set up a virtual background or use background blur.
• The teacher must take immediate action if a participant shares content that violates the teacher’s instructions.
• Tell everyone in advance if the virtual classroom session will be recorded. State the reasons for recording the session (such as to allow absent students to view the recording later).
• If a session is recorded, students should be allowed to turn their cameras off if they so choose.
• Use live video only if it brings clear benefits to your virtual classroom. Consider alternative options that can be offered to students who prefer not to share their camera.
• Tell your students in advance that they should be prepared to turn on their camera during the session.
• If bandwidth is low, live video can disrupt or even prevent your session. You can agree with your students that they can turn their cameras off after the first few minutes and that only presenters will share their webcam later during the meeting.
• Live video should not be used to monitor student activities remotely. It does not effectively prevent academic misconduct but forcing students to turn on their cameras can lead to security issues.

Instructions for students

• Students are recommended to set up a profile picture, so it is easier to identify who is speaking even when the participants have their cameras turned off.
• Always blur your background to protect your privacy when your camera is turned on.
• Try to attend the virtual classroom from a space that has minimal background noise and movement.
• Tell other people in same space that you will be attending a virtual classroom session and may have to turn on your camera.
• Make sure there is no sensitive or confidential information visible in your background. If possible, go to a quiet room with a neutral backdrop.
• Mute all other sounds.
• Turn off your camera during breaks and if someone walks into the room.
• If you prefer not to provide verbal comments during the session, type your message into the chat window.
• Only teachers record virtual classroom sessions to ensure that recordings are processed in compliance with data protection and copyright requirements. Other recording of online teaching events is not allowed!

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