Audioconference Tips
Although most people spend at least a portion of their day on the telephone, many are unfamiliar with audioconferencing. Even those who have participated in audioconference calls are unlikely to be familiar with learning via telephone lines.
Here are some tips to help you become better acquainted with our delivery system.
- You should be ready to dial into your conference about 5 minutes before the designated start time (check your syllabus). It is very important to enter your class on time.
- For the class to run as smoothly as possible, it is strongly suggested that you use a phone that has a mute button. A speakerphone with a mute button is the best. Normally you should have the phone on mute at all times, other than when actually speaking.
- Always state your name and location when asking or answering a question or making a comment (i.e. "This is Carol in Dillingham..."). This will help your instructor and your classmates recognize your voice sooner. It will also help your experience with audioconferencing feel more personal and less technical.
- You don't need to wait until being called upon to speak. If a comment or question is made, you can respond immediately. Because there can only be one person speaking at a time, wait until you are sure the person speaking has completely finished.
- Take notes during each audioconference. Taking notes will keep you focused on the information being presented. You can also tape your audioconference for later review.
- Remember the instructor is there to assist you and your fellow students. If you are having trouble, contact the instructor outside of class. (Most instructors list office hours, e-mail address, and a telephone number on the syllabus.)
- Be sure you have all the necessary materials and supplies before class.
- Come to the audioconference prepared to ask questions about anything you do not understand.
If you need further help, call Amanda Johnson at 1-800-478-6653, Ext. 7721.
Audioconference Troubleshooting
If you are having problems hearing your audioconference, the troubleshooting ideas below may help. If these do not work and you need further help, call Cheryl Stromme or Amanda Bickar at 1-800-478-6653, Ext. 7757 or 7721.
There are squeals and static on the line...
Possible causes: Cordless telephone, cordless telephone too close to other equipment, equipment not on mute.
Solutions: Switch phones, mute your phone when not speaking, hang up and redial.
You sound broken up to distant listeners...
Possible causes: You may be too far from the telephone/microphone. (You shouldn't be more than 8 inches away), you have a noisy telephone line, noise may be originating from another site. Solutions: Check to ensure you are speaking directly into the telephone. Ask the help desk to assist you.
You cannot hear the party on the other end...
Possible causes: You may not be getting feedback noise through the phone. Volume may need to be adjusted. A second telephone may be off the hook. A distance site may have additional conversations going on in the background.
Solutions: Adjust the volume. Check for a secondary noise source. Ask to be reconnected. Check ears for excess wax.
A loud squawking feedback noise is heard...
Possible causes: Microphone is too close to the power source. A telephone is off the hook.
Solutions: Move the microphone farther away. Check secondary noise source.
Having problems getting connected to your class? Call Encounter Collaborative Help Desk at 1-800-290-5900.
