Tags: devices

In Class

What should you bring to class … in addition to yourself?

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to move to a fundamentally different set of delivery modalities, e.g., HyFlex, hybrid, remote, synchronous or unsynchronous or some combination of approaches to teaching and learning. We are increasingly working remotely in order to accomplish our work. That remote modality demands that we adjust our understanding of acceptable protocols for attendance and participation, whether a meeting or course attendance, engagement and participation.

While working together using a digital platform, e.g., Teams, Zoom, Slack, etc. it is important that you join the session with a live camera and muted mic. A live camera helps to create a sense of community and will help all of us to engage effectively during our discussions. If you only unmute your mic when speaking we can avoid feedback, unsolicited input from family, pets and others as well as any random noise. If you cannot be seen or heard by your classmates it will be difficult to actively engage in course meetings. That will have negative implications for your grade results. Please review the Protocols for Online Meetings and Classes for more information.

First, the course text or any materials required for that class are a must. It is always a good idea to buy the course text (if one is required) early in the semester. If you have not purchased the text, you will not be able to complete the reading assignments and then you will not meet my expectations related to in-class participation. That will not be good.

Next up is your device of choice (laptop, tablet, mobile) to bring to class. We will be actively using technology to search for answers to the questions raised during our discussions. Just be sure you can function in a class environment with the device you carry that day. Small screens and keyboards are occasionally difficult to work with under the wrong circumstances.

Finally, bring something to take notes. Many prefer to take notes using a device but you may prefer to use paper (a venerable technology in its own right) to take notes in class. Whatever works for you … go for it!

Privacy & Security

This page is not intended to be a comprehensive resource on privacy and security … it is intended to help you get started on your journey into this complex and ever-changing area …

As a result, this page will undoubtedly remain a work in progress forever … if you see any gaps, or can suggest additional resources, please ping me at your convenience …

First Steps

Next Steps

Additional Resources

Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF)

Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society at Harvard University (BKC)

Stanford Law Center for Internet and Society (CIS)

Security

Bruce Schneier

Brian Krebs

What Protocols Should We Follow For Online Meetings And Classes?

While participating in video-based class meetings or conferences, eg, office hours, please observe these few guidelines:
  • Familiarize yourself with your device so you feel comfortable operating it.
  • Familiarize yourself with the video platform that will support your meeting. While most platforms share common features/functions, most will approach those features/functions with different command structures.
  • Be certain that your webcam, microphone and speakers are working properly.
  • Always leave your webcam on so all participants can see you. While working together using a digital platform, e.g., Teams, Zoom, Slack, etc. it is important that you join the session with a live camera and muted mic. A live camera helps to create a sense of community and will help all of us to engage effectively during our discussions. If you only unmute your mic when speaking we can avoid feedback, unsolicited input from family, pets and others as well as any random noise.
  • Be certain that the lighting and sound in your location support a video conference, that is, minimize the impact of overhead lights and/or reflections in the camera’s view and the room acoustics minimize echo.
  • Be certain to use earbuds when active in the video conference to minimize the feedback loop that manifests on some laptops.
  • Remember that available bandwidth may result in a slight delay between the time an individual speaks and the time you hear the statement. Please allow others to finish before you answer. Also, when you finish speaking, pause to allow others to comment.
  • Keep your system on mute unless you are speaking. We will be in a voice-activated video conference so the primary camera shot will follow the sound. Just remember to unmute your microphone before you begin speaking.
  • As a courtesy, please state your name before speaking.
  • Always remember to RSVP to a meeting invitation and confirm your availability. Your RSVP will help your meeting organizer to manage the meeting properly and will appreciate your courtesy.
  • Join your meeting five minutes early so that you can be certain that you have addressed all of the above issues.
  • And, finally, always assume you are on camera, even when not speaking.