7 best practices for using video in online training

Video in online training
7 best
practices for
using video in
online training
Getting started with GoToTraining
and HDFaces video conferencing
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Solutions Brief
Video in online training
Solutions Brief
Training online is an efficient way to reach more
people while keeping costs down, and now that
GoToTraining includes HDFaces high-definition video
conferencing, online trainers can offer a richer and
more interactive online classroom environment.
HD video conferencing enhances the online
experience, so whether you’re instructing a class,
hosting a panel discussion, working in a small
group, leading a Q & A session or giving a live
demonstration, HDFaces can help make sure
your audience is tuned in and your message is
fully comprehended.
The following seven best practices will help you get
started with HDFaces. Read on to make sure you’re
prepared to turn on your webcam in your next online
training session.
7 best practices for using video online
1. Balance the lighting in your environment. You should use two light
sources — one to light the room and the other to light your face. A regular
desk lamp set in front of you and slightly off to one side will do the trick. If you
are in a particularly bright room, position yourself towards the windows to take
advantage of the natural light. Avoid sitting with your back to a bright window
to prevent glare.
To avoid looking
like this, position
yourself facing
windows rather
than sitting with
your back to them.
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Considerations
for a great
video
experience
•Proper lighting
•Tidy background
•High-definition
webcam
•Balanced webcam
position
•Virtual eye contact
•Professional dress
•Elimination of
eyeglasses glare
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Video in online training
Solutions Brief
2. Eliminate background distractions. Your audience will see whatever is
behind you, so tidy your messy bookshelf or close your office door. You don’t
want your audience to be distracted by your background, so make it as simple
and clean as possible. You should also alert people in your office or home that
you will be in a video session so they know not to interrupt or walk behind you.
3. Set up a high-definition webcam. High-definition video conferencing offers
the most dynamic, realistic experience, so, if you can, opt for a high-definition
webcam. HDFaces functionality is built in to GoToTraining, so to look your best
and present the most professional-looking on-camera experience, use an
HD camera.
4. Position yourself within the field of vision of the camera. One of
the best things about HDFaces is the ability to use and interpret body
language and other visual communication cues. But make sure you know
the boundaries of your webcam’s field of vision so your gestures are fully
captured. Also remember to sit back from the camera to avoid magnification.
Both your head and shoulders should be visible in the webcam.
5. Simulate eye contact. An easy way to create virtual eye contact in online
training sessions is to drag the viewer window of your notes or presentation to
the top of the screen right under where your webcam sits. As you refer to your
presentation or notes during your session, your eyes are still near the webcam
and not the bottom of your screen.
Left: wrong. Right: correct. Position your notes or presentation at the top of your computer screen to maintain
virtual eye contact while you reference the documents.
6. Wear something professional. Looking professional is a must in during a
high-definition webcam-sharing session. While suits and ties aren’t usually
necessary, nice shirts, fixed hair and overall professionalism in appearance will
ensure that the audience is focused on the content of the session rather than
your printed sweater or disheveled hair-do.
7. Eliminate eyeglasses glare. If you wear eyeglasses while using HDFaces,
you may notice them reflecting the computer screen in your video feed. If you
can’t remove your eyeglasses for the session, tilt your computer screen or
adjust your chair higher or lower to eliminate the glare.
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You can offer custom
audio options to
your participants
with GoToTraining.
For international
participants, local and
toll-free international
phone numbers are
available. To set up
integrated audio
conferencing in
GoToTraining,
contact sales at
1 866 962 6491.
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Video in online training
Solutions Brief
Conclusion
When using HDFaces in online training sessions, don’t let the online environment
confuse the way you present yourself. Video conferencing should enhance your
training, not distract from it. A professional appearance allows your learners to
interact with your, focus on your content and read your visual communication cues
without distraction.
Note: A maximum of 100 participants will be able to view webcams during a live
session.
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[email protected]
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About Citrix
Citrix is transforming how people, businesses and IT work and collaborate in the cloud era. Its portfolio of GoTo cloud services enable people to
work from anywhere with anyone by providing simple-to-use cloud-based collaboration, remote access and IT support solutions for every type of
business. Learn more at www.citrix.com and www.citrixonline.com.
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