Virtual Classes - Zoom

The use of video conferencing has been proven to be a very effective method of keeping in contact and to be able to obsever the students and their work. The following description is how I have set up the meetings and the protocol of how to act within the Zoom classes.

It will be a friendly and supportive environment, like the classroom, where I will be able to instruct and guide students when necessary.

Discussion and interaction could also take place with the students and I hope this will continue to encourage regular daily study.

Please note that I am using “best practice” guidance when using Zoom which includes using passwords and the Waiting Room to improve security. I have locked a number of features for example Screensharing, and some have been limited to Host only (which will be myself) for added security. I will also lock the meeting when we have started to stop anyone not invited from entering. Please note recording or screenshots is strictly forbidden!!

Once you have clicked the link to join the meeting you will be asked to download and run the Zoom meetings application (the Zoom app is Free). Once opened, select “Join with computer audio” and you will be taken into the Waiting Room. Once in the meeting room please just wait until I Admit the participants (I am limiting to 10 to start with - but there maybe fewer).

In order to ensure a smooth session please:

1. Be prepared with your worksheets and sharp pencil

2. Find a quiet environment to video

3. Angle the camera such that I can see the sheets

4. Please keep yourself unmuted - I can control the mute

5. Keep background chatter to a minimum

6. Go to the loo before the class!!

7. Keep smiling!!

Don't hesitate to ask me at any time about this or anything associated with the Kumon work.

Preparation for Group Class on Zoom – a guide for parents and students

In order to prepare for your Zoom Kumon class, please find a quiet space with minimal distractions; preferably with no pictures or distractions in the background of where you are sitting as other children, as well as Mike, will be able to see you. Just as you would prepare for a regular Kumon class, please bring a pencil and an eraser and of course your scheduled worksheets for that day.

Attending the class

When attending your class, please use the link provided in the email invitation sent to you from Mike. The email will include the date, time and a link that you can press to gain access to your class. Click the link a couple of minutes before your scheduled class time and I will invite you in when class is ready to start.

Setting up your workspace

Camera Angle

I want to be able to see your face, eyes and hands when you’re working in the online class, so I'd like you to practice how you will position your device so that both you and your work are clearly seen.

If you are using a mobile phone, please use a bird’s-eye angle (front-on, raised above the student and worksheet) wherever possible so that I can see the whole of your worksheet, as well as your face. Using items such as a tripod, selfie stick or a car phone holder are ideal in capturing this angle. If these items are unavailable, then propping up the phone in a large coffee mug (empty!) can also work!

If you’re using a laptop, please tilt the screen/webcam downward so that the worksheet is very clear for me to see, again, from a front-on view point.

Whichever device you use, please test it first to ensure that I will be able to see the worksheet clearly.

Changing your onscreen name to your child’s name

It is helpful to me during group class, if you are able to make your child’s name visible on screen. To do this, click the three dots in the right hand corner of the screen and select ‘Rename’, and then add your child’s name.

Features of the Zoom App

Mute – this function is used by the Instructor to reduce the level of sound during class. Students will be muted in class to avoid distracting others and allow the Instructor to give assistance to individuals clearly. Zoom have introduced a security measure that means I cannot unmute anybody - so if you need to talk to me please Unmute from your end.

Raise hands – this function can be used to seek assistance from the Instructor. The ‘raise hands’ feature is found under the ‘Participants’ function on the bottom bar. Please click participants and then the raise hand to get your Instructor’s attention. Your Instructor will then signal to you to unmute and will give you the assistance required.