Using Videoconferencing

What is videoconferencing?

• Using the internet to connect people together in different locations

• Using web-cams enables you to see and hear each other and hold a ‘virtual conference’

• Software available FREE to schools from e2bn which includes a secure link (vital for use in schools)

What did we do?

• Worked with a local primary school and used a year 10 post GCSE French group

• Developed speaking and listening activities for both the primary and secondary students to improve their language skills

• Activities included Q&A sessions and role-play Bingo

How did we do it?• Planning and preparation:• working with the primary school to

develop ideas and activities• setting up a timetable• face to face meetings• virtual meetings to practice using the

equipment (internally and externally)• pupil practice sessions in English• pupil practice of activities without

web-cam• pupil practice being in front of the

web-cam

Managing a videoconference• Behaviour Management• Give all pupils a focus (peer assessment

sheet)• Using additional adults (ICT support, members

of Dept.)• Preparing other activities to complete• Groups useful• Confidence with equipment

• Videoconferencing Etiquette• Format/script for what happens when• Managing change-overs• Communication in case of equipment failure

What ICT help do I need?

• Very little!

• Room with IWB, PC, speakers and web-cam installed (available from ICT)

• Register with e2bn to get an account and book a videoconference session

• Guides available to help

• Ask us or ICT for support

Why should I do it?

• Skills – as well as subject specific skills it also builds the following:• personal presentation skills; • public speaking skills; • ICT skills; • independent learning skills;• trouble shooting skills

Why use a feedback survey?

• Reinforces skills gained in pupils’ minds• Overview of pupil feedback for teacher• What is the impact on teaching and learning?

• What did we learn?• Pupil feedback was positive! • 89% were keen to use videoconferencing again

• Elements of survey: teamwork; linguistic skills; confidence; relevance to skills needed future careers…

• Good use of VLE

What advice have we got?

• Does take some preparation

• Builds lots of skills beyond own subject

• It is fun and excellent use of ICT

• Can build community links

• Another way of getting an adult into the classroom

• Have a go!