Norms

As we are operating more and more from our houses, we will be looking to find places for personal space. Having a space set up for remote learning is a good idea. That said, this should not be in a bedroom. Ideally, this would be a desk, table or other surface equipped with good lighting and supplies (pens, pencils, computer charger). It is recommended the computer (and its camera) face a wall (this way others in the house won’t “accidentally” be on camera in the background).

If we can't multitask in a face-to-face environment, we certainly can't do it remotely. As we move to remote work we need to limit distraction. Therefore, during the academic classes, implement a one device rule—the laptop. Phones, tablets, TVs and other devices should be turned off and not within arm’s reach of your work area.

Things will technologically go wrong, which is why there are 15 minutes in between the academic periods of the day. Take a 10-minute break, but then plan to be in your Zoom class 5 minutes early in case something goes amiss technologically. Note that barring technology issues, you are expected to be present in the Zoom meeting for the entire period.

Start class by muting your mic and starting your video. Muting your mic cuts down on the background noise in the Zoom meeting. If you want to talk, hold down the spacebar to unmute your mic. Also, watching yourself on video the first couple times may be weird, but after a while you will get used to it. And one of the best ways we can stay connected is through seeing each other as we interact.

This isn't pajama day for homecoming week! Dress in clothes that are professional, properly covering and no hats or hoods in the classroom. That said, by all means also wear a comfy pair of slippers.

Your teachers will record segments, or all, of your class to be able to share with students who are missing. That said, we want to preserve as much of the community feel of a classroom as possible, so they are the only ones with permission to do so. They will not post this recording publicly. For the sake of the privacy of your fellow classmates, you are not permitted to record any meeting using the Kent Denver Zoom environment.