Tips and Etiquette for Virtual Classes

Tips on participation for getting most out of the course

We want to make your Virtual Class an educational AND enjoyable experience. If this is your first time experiencing online learning, it can be a challenge, so be prepared and make the most of your time with us.

Some handy Tips before you join the Virtual Class

    • Ensure you have tested your connectivity and are prepared to begin.
      • You have opened all the links to applications as provided by email
      • Your Audio works
    • Turn off other notifications that pop up. e.g. In Outlook turn OFF the email notifications that come in.

Outlook 2013 or 2016:

    • Go to the File tab
    • Select Options.
    • Select Mail.
    • In the message arrival section, un-check Display a Desktop Alert
  • Ensure your calendar shows you are busy. Let your co-workers and boss know you are on an on-line course.
  • If you are in an open workspace, put a physical note at your workstation to say ‘on-course until x time’ to avoid in-person interruptions.
  • Close down all other programs on your computer, especially email.
  • Turn OFF your phone (don't just put it on Vibrate), include an Out Of Office Message if required.
  • Visit the restroom, and have water on hand.
  • Commit to being present.

Etiquette

Communication can be quite different when you are participating in online, instructor-led classes as opposed to in-person classes where you can read body language cues and immediate feedback.

Here are some common-sense rules for good online etiquette that will provide a great online learning experience where everyone is clearly understood.

  • Respectful Communication . Remember your instructors and classmates are real people who are sitting at a computer just like you and who can be affected by the words you say and write. If you wouldn't say it to a person's face, don't say it online either.
  • Strong language , all caps and exclamation points. These can appear rude, even if you aren't intending them to be. It's a good idea to read everything aloud if before you send it.
  • Watch humour and sarcasm . While we love your sense of humour, just be clear you are being funny and not rude. Emoticons and smileys can be helpful for this purpose.
  • Grammar and spelling do matter. Keep it formal and professional in an educational setting such as this. Keep the 'textspeak' for friends and social situations.
  • No inappropriate material.
  • Be tolerant. Some people struggle with written communication. Remember how different it is from in-person.
  • Join in. Conversations are as important online, as they are in person. You can show your agreement by a simple statement, or thumbs up, and writing your thoughts into the chat window. Remember your ideas and questions will not only help YOU learn, but enhance the experience for everyone participating.

Expectations

  • Self-Learning is part of the course material. We will be reviewing the assigned self-learning activities during following sessions. To get the most from the course, Please block out time in your diary to do it accordingly. The expected time is in the calendar invite you will receive and also on the course outline page.
  • Only do the exercises when you get to them - it's important to watch instructor, rather than trying to do it at the same time. There is dedicated time for you to have a go yourself.
  • Attend each and every Virtual Class in the series. Some build on others, and all of them are important and not recorded. If you cant make it, you can let us know via email [email protected] or by replying to the calendar invite.
  • Utilise the Course Materials AFTER the training. These provide contextual slides and videos to reinforce your learning.
  • Complete the Quiz's to assess what you have learnt.
  • Provide feedback - we want to improve on our courses and value all your feedback.
  • Have fun! We have included lots of interactivity to get you all excited about topics we also are passionate about….learning is fun - enjoy the experience.