Virtual Classroom

Interactive, Small-Group Learning
Content is delivered virtually.

Easy Access
Avoid barriers such as transportation and other costs associated with on-site training.

User-Friendly Interface
Participants use digital learning tools to navigate the virtual classroom environment.

Efficient Learning
Courses are flexibly structured so that instructors and content creators can implement unique features according to subject matter.

Content Security
Gain complete control over content with a platform that provides built-in security measures such as authentication and access controls.

Materials Included
All necessary materials are provided as part of the course cost and are available via a simple download.

Simulate a Physical Learning Environment
Create a suitable learning environment, similar to a physical classroom, using quality streaming, presentation tools and user-friendly collaboration features.

Employ Interactive Teaching Features
Create a dynamic and interactive learning environment with digital whiteboards and annotations, emojis, chats, polls and more.

Utilize Breakout Sessions
Splitting a virtual classroom into mini virtual classrooms where participants can work in small groups allows instructors to set time limits for group work and bring all participants back to the main room for discussion.

Share Content
Share screens, video, audio and other resources simply and quickly.

Download and Print Handouts
About a week before class begins, download, print and read the course materials provided.

Re-Read Class Goals and Learning Outcomes
Remind yourself of the focus of the class and let go of subconscious expectations or cognitive biases that might get in the way of your learning.

Make Time for Assignments
Think of the virtual class like you would a face-to-face learning experience: pre-work or assessments usually come with the territory. In addition to investing financially in a course, you must also invest the time required to complete your assignments.

Prepare in Advance
Complete coursework as assigned, in advance, and log in at least 5-10 minutes prior to the start of the class with study materials ready to go.

Know the Virtual Tools
Find out what software will be used during the class and familiarize yourself with it. If you have any challenges with Wi-Fi, being hardwired into the internet router may help with streaming quality (Ethernet cord required).

Use a Computer/Laptop
Do not use a digital tablet or cellphone, as many software platforms are not optimized for smaller screens. It may also be more difficult to type, see all class members or switch platforms on these devices.

Minimize Distractions
Be present. You detract from your own learning experience (and that of your classmates) if you arrive late, leave early or drop off in the middle of class to take a phone call or attend another meeting. Ditto for environmental distractions (e.g., dogs, kids, background noise).

Maximize Your Staging
"Staging" refers to the environmental elements that make a virtual learning experience successful. Make sure that your classmates and facilitator can clearly see and hear you during livestreaming portions of the class.

Internet Connectivity

• Cable and DSL internet connections recommended

Hardware

• Minimum Pentium 400 Mhz CPU or G3 Macintosh, 1 GHz or greater CPU recommended
• 256MB RAM minimum, 1 GB RAM recommended
• 800x600 video resolution minimum, 1025x768 recommended
• Speakers/headphones to listen to Dialogue streaming audio sessions
• A microphone to speak in Dialogue streaming audio sessions

Operating System

• Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 9, 10
• Mac OSX 10 or higher
• openSUSE Linux 9.2 or higher

Web Browser 

• Google Chrome recommended
• Firefox 13.x or greater
• Internet Explorer 6.x or greater
• Safari 3.2.2 or greater
• Accept cookies
• Disable pop-up blocker

Software 

• Adobe Flash Player 6 or greater
• Oracle Java 7 or greater
• Adobe Reader 7 or greater