Attending a live remote class

There are a number of different ways in which your teachers might choose to deliver teaching online, so you should expect that there will be variety in how your remote classes will be taught. Not all your sessions will be delivered in real-time and even sessions which are ‘live’ will differ from one another. Your classes will often make use of a mix of pre-recorded material and real-time interaction. Below is an overview of what attending a remote class could look like using a tool such as Microsoft Teams:

Attending a remote class

1. Before the session

You should be made aware in advance of the session of what the format will be and what work you need to have completed in advance.

You should also be aware of what teaching tool is being used (e.g. Microsoft Teams) and how you can access it.

If you are unsure, simply ask whoever is leading the session.

2. Video call tips

It is best to download the video call app you are using (e.g. MS Teams) rather than relying on the web version, because this will allow greater functionality.

To reduce background noise, you should join with your microphone on mute and keep it on mute unless you want to say something. When you want to say something, use the hands up function first rather than immediately unmuting. When you need to speak, say who you are first, especially if you do not know everyone on the call.

Finally, where possible, try to use the chat function to ask questions rather than speaking, as this will prevent people talking over each other.

3. During the session

The person leading the session should make you aware at the start of any particular rules to follow. What happens during the session will vary depending on your module and teaching staff. They may deliver a lecture in real-time or invite you to watch a pre-recorded lecture or other material whilst being on hand to answer any questions in the chat.

4. Different approaches

It is possible that some of your remote classes may involve individuals or small groups of students breaking off during the session to undertake activities, perhaps making use of separate virtual break out rooms. The session leader may also make use of several different channels within a Teams group to coordinate different activities.

5. After the session

When the session ends, you should be made aware of any work to be done before the next class via email or another communication method.

Communication Etiquette

Finally, it is worth remembering that all your communications concerned with your degree programme should be conducted in a professional manner. You should also consider all your online interactions in this way, so below are a few reminders about how to conduct yourself when communicating or learning online:

  • Give others time to communicate effectively, especially when taking part in group discussions. Interacting online can mean others may be slower to respond across a range of formats.  

  • Acknowledge, recognise, and be respectful of the viewpoints, contributions and interpretations of others. 

  • Think before you type or speak. Online communications can be easily misread or misinterpreted, so consider what you are saying, how you are saying it, and who will be receiving it. Remember that anything written on the main chat on a video call will be seen by everyone on the call. Find out more about online communication on our Netiquette pages.