Learning Online

Learning Online

Whilst most of your teaching at Imperial College will be in-person, there may be times when teaching or personal & professional development workshops are delivered online. 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 remote classes will be taught. 

Below is an overview of what attending a remote class could look like using a tool such as Microsoft Teams: 

Attending online classes

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.

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 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.

Preparing for an online session

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.

Communicating Online

Communicating in an online world requires etiquette for polite, professional behaviour. This ensures successful, meaningful and respectful interactions among the College community.  

Remember that in an online environment, it is not enough just to ‘turn up’. You will benefit more from your studies if you fully engage with online sessions. You will learn more and will get to know others better, and this will make the online environment more comfortable for everyone, including you.   

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.