Collaborate for teaching

• Internet access, preferably wired if you can (Broadband internet speed recommended)
• Web browser (Chrome recommended)
• Headphones/speakers and microphone
• Webcam or inbuilt camera (if using video)
• Review the advice on Get Started with Collaborate in Blackboard Help.

• Suggest that participants hide their video and just have the Speaker sharing theirs
• Convert PowerPoints to PDFs and upload slides instead of using screen share
• Run short sessions and consider complementing with alternative means of communication such as discussion forums, ePortfolios or shared documents.

1. Where possible use a wired connection
   • If a wired connection is not possible choose a location with good connectivity
2. Turn off the Video while presenting content
   • Turn off your camera lecturer while presenting slides or content.
   • Only turn your camera on when directly interacting with the students
3. Sharing files
   • Sharing the Application window uses more bandwidth than file sharing
   • Reduce the size of files by converting them to a pdf format (preferably for web). This is especially important for large PowerPoint presentations.
   • Ensure any required files are uploaded to the session before it commences.

Bb Collaborate help has a detailed section for Session Best Practices for Moderators. You can also watch our Collaborate for Moderators screencast for more information.

Check out a Collaborate Virtual Classroom as either a Moderator or a Student

• Practice classroom as a moderator - As a moderator you can practise uploading your lecture notes and handouts, using the whiteboard area or sharing your applications.
• Practice classroom as a student - As a student, you can see how the collaboration tools work from a student perspective.

Protocols to run through for every Collaborate lecture

• Join at least 15 minutes early to test your audio and video.
• Greet students as they join.
• Have a welcome slide with instructions to set up audio/video (available pre-made slides).
• Explain to students how you would like the session to run (i.e. questions at the end, questions asked via chat, students to raise their hand, or students to ask as they please). Ensure all students understand the basics before proceeding.
• If you are planning to record, seek permission and explain the video/audio/chat will be recorded and made available to all in the subject. Only record if necessary.
• One person on their microphone at a time - mute when not speaking to reduce background noise and bandwidth.
• Speak clearly, slowly and be animated.
• Engage the students through polling, feedback, emoticons, ask questions and use student names.
• Be patient with students and self while everyone adjusts to new ways.

Printable PDF for Collaborate Protocols (PDF, 521 KB)