General Information on Videoconferencing

Here is a list of websites with general information about videoconferencing. You will find information about how to use videoconferencing in your classroom, as well as the equipment needed and the types of connections used.
You will also find information specifically on videoconferencing etiquette and checklists used to prepare for a videoconference.

Guidelines for IVC Cart Use return to top

Videoconferencing is a tool which allows users to see and hear the person with whom they are communicating. Through interactive videoconferencing, students can collaborate with other students throughout the district, nation and world. They can access experts that would be cost prohibitive to bring to your campus. They can also participate in virtual field trips to places they may never see personally.

Following is a list of guidelines for use of the videoconferencing equipment at the schools:

• The equipment should be used for videoconferencing purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for a classroom VCR or projector.
• The equipment should be used only by trained personnel. It should not be used by substitutes.
• Use by outside entities, i.e., PTA or other community groups, must be sponsored by a trained personnel member who will be responsible for the equipment.
• The equipment should be checked out only for the duration of an instructional day. Overnight checkout will be allowed only if the person using it can provide a secure storage place.
• The equipment should not be moved to portables.
• The equipment should not be carried up stairs. Moving it to an upper level floor via an elevator is OK.
• The equipment should not be moved by students.
• The equipment should not be removed from the campus.

General Info return to top

• General Info.pdf - This document provides helpful information on using IVC in your classroom. Including classroom etiquette, classroom set up, and preparing visuals for presentations.
• Digital Bridges: Videoconferencing for Teaching and Learning - This site offers information on the benefits of videoconferencing as well as how to use it.

• Digital Bridges: A Teacher's Guide to Videoconferencing* - Tips on how to plan, implement and assess a distance learning class.

• AT&T Educations' Videoconferencing for Learning* - In my opinion, the best site out there for learning about videoconferencing. It covers equipment needs, the types of connections, and application ideas. 

• Online Learning Network Self Paced Modules - Listed under the “Integrating Technology Module”, scroll down to about the middle of the page, you will find "Introduction to videoconferencing". This is a self paced module that covers the basics of videoconferencing. E) is Michigan's organization for videoconferencing in K-12 education. TWICE promotes and supports collaborative connections for the benefit of all students.

• University of Idaho Interactive Videoconferencing in Distance Education* - Online guide to interactive videoconferencing.

• Videoconferencing: A Digital Handbook for Teachers and Students - Published by the Jerome School District in Idaho, this hanadbook has pratical information for using videoconferencing in the K-12 classroom.

*Taken from Videoconferencing for K-12 Classrooms.

Videoconferencing etiquette return to top
We all know that there is a certain behavior expectation for teachers and students while in the classroom. Does that change when you are doing a videoconference? Check out the following links for ideas on how to make your videoconference the best it can be.

• Participant Etiquette handout
• Emily Post Institute Videoconferencing Etiquette Tips  - geared toward business, but still relevant.
• Videoconferencing Etiquette - The BELLE Project

Videoconferencing preparation return to top
You have the equipment, a great idea for a videoconference, even a partner school to conference with. Now what? Check out the following information for ideas on how to prepare for a successful videoconference.

• A Comprehensive Videochecklist from AT&T
• Videoconferencing Planning Guidelines from Jerome School District in Idaho.
• Presentation tips

Professional Organizations return to top
The following are professional organizations that include videoconferencing in their support:

• Texas Distance Learning Association - This is the state organization for distance learning.
• United States Distance Learning Association - This is the national organization for distance learning.
• Texas Computer Educators Association - This is the state computer association.
• International Society for Technology in Education - This is the national association for the use of technology in education.

Email Listservs return to top
Following are links to websites where you can enroll in a videoconferencing listserv. Use these listservs to have videoconferencing ideas sent straight to your email account.

• ED1VIDCONF - Sponsored by AT&T, this is the most recommended listserv. If you are just going to join one, this should be the one.
• K12IVC - Sponsored by CILC. This is used by individuals and content providers. To subscribe to K12IVC@CILC, send a blank e-mail to k12ivc-addme@cilc.net
• CAPspace - Daily email with the collaborations that have been posted the day before. Set your preferences for receiving email under "my settings."
• TWICE listserve - Between this listserv and the one above, you will receive information about almost everything out there.
• Dallas ISD Listserv – To keep abreast of VC happenings in Dallas ISD, contact Lori Colwill to be added to this email group.

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