What are the essential skills and tools for video conferencing in different contexts and scenarios?

One of the dangers of videoconferencing is either the presenter or the audience can feel a disconnect from what is being presented. It’s important to maintain eye contact with the camera and to show genuine warmth. It’s a good idea to record yourself a few times and make any necessary adjustments in your facial expressions and tone of voice. Consider using a teleprompter or program that will allow your notes to scroll and to be positioned so you won’t have to divert your eyes to read them.

To achieve this it is necessary to ensure technical readiness: choose a stable Internet connection as well as a high-quality microphone and camera. Set the stage with a professional, well-kept backdrop and dress appropriately for the occasion to convey professionalism.

This is an area of videoconferencing that shines with a different set of hardware. A camera that auto tracks the teacher as they move around, video processing that allows for layering of logos and notes, and the ability for the teacher to “look” at each student in such a way the student feels a connection without needing to be specifically called on are all features of a purpose-built system. If you don’t have such a system, keep these points in mind as you plan and teach. It’s a good idea to have a multi viewer in front of the teacher so all students may be seen at once (cameras on), and large enough to be recognizable as human beings.

Encourage active participation by addressing students by name, asking open-ended questions to encourage critical thinking, and facilitating discussions that encourage diverse viewpoints. Assigning group tasks or projects encourages teamwork and deeper exploration of the subject matter, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Start on time by introducing yourself and thanking attendees, then briefly review the agenda and objectives. Throughout the meeting, keep the discussion moving by asking relevant questions, summarizing key points, and constructively addressing any conflicts to facilitate decision-making.

Facilitating a meeting is about preparing for the meeting. In my opinion, you need to consider is this a hybrid session or a complete remote meeting. If it is a hybrid, is the facilitator in one of the rooms or remote. When participants that are joining from a room, you cannot assume they have equal access to “virtual tools, unless you ask them to plan for joining their device for fully participating. I like sending a remind at the day before on how to prepare, especially for workshops, larger sessions. Think 2/3 ain’t bad…

Decide in advance how the dissemination of information will occur post-meeting. The use of recordings and transcripts often allows the participants to relax and focus on the meeting, rather than taking notes. Also, take the opportunity at the beginning to remind everyone of any confidential items.

Be genuine and sincerely seek to help where you can. Even though this is a virtual meeting, real human connection is what we all seek.

Videoconferencing solutions are advancing at a rapid pace. One of the main design targets is creating an immersive experience for not the local and far-end participants. All need to feel included and engaged. Consult with a professional who lives and breathes this technology and you’ll spend less while gaining more.