802.660.4988 info@vtruralwater.org

Webinar Trainings

Given the current situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, webinars are the best option we have for continuing to provide training classes to you. Here are some tips to improve your webinar learning experience.

Technology Requirements

We are using a platform called Zoom to host our webinars. You will not have pay any extra (beyond normal training registration fees) to use Zoom.

In order to view the webinar, you will need a computer, tablet, or smart phone, as well as an internet connection. A webcam and/or microphone will allow you to speak during the class if the instructor enables it; however, these are not required.

Please Note: We are aware that there have been some privacy concerns with Zoom recently. We are following best-practices guidelines to keep our webinar trainings secure. Our webinars are password-protected, and when you sign in you will have to wait us to approve you to join the class. This means that no one who isn’t approved will have access to the webinar. If you or your employer are concerned about the security of your work computer, you may consider using a smartphone or tablet that does not have access to sensitive information.

If you do not have access to these at work, here some options you may consider:

  • View the webinar from home
  • View the webinar from your system’s town office or administrative office
  • Ask your local library
  • Internet Essentials is offering low-cost internet access and low-cost computers during the COVID-19 outbreak: https://www.internetessentials.com/

 

Using Zoom

The day before class, we will email you the webinar link. About 10 to 15 minutes before the class starts, open the link. If you haven’t yet downloaded Zoom, it will prompt you to download the application. Follow the installation steps; this should only take a minute or two.

Once Zoom opens, it will prompt you to type your name and email to sign in. You will then enter the webinar. For detailed instructions on using features in Zoom, click here.

 Please practice online civility during webinar trainings. Keep the discussion respectful and on-topic. It is best to avoid jokes or sarcasm because humor can be difficult to interpret online.

Accommodations

We strive to make our classes accessible to all. To discuss concerns or request accommodations, email info@vtruralwater.org or call 802-660-4988.

Depending on the class, some accommodations we may be able to offer include:

Tips for Online Learning

It can be hard to stay engaged when you aren’t in the same room as the instructor. Consider these ideas to help you stay focused and get the most out of the webinar:

Engage your brain: Take notes, ask questions, use the chat feature to share your ideas
Engage your hands: Doodle, knit, play with play-dough or fidget toys
Engage your body: Stretch, march in place, do lunges, do jumping jacks, sit on a yoga ball
Avoid distractions: Don’t text, check email/social media/apps, or play games