Yup, it failed.
Technology is going to fail. It might be on your end or on your students’ end, but chances are it is going to fail. So, what should you do? After years of connecting with teachers and students here are my recommendations.
Don’t be afraid of technology. Chances are high that you will not break it—unless you throw it out the window.
Turn it off. Wait 10 seconds, turn it back on.
Make sure your computer is plugged in and connected to the internet. If you also have kids or other people at home during your classes, ask them to stay off the internet while you are hosting live sessions.
Play with the technology ahead of time and try to understand basic troubleshooting.
Make a plan with your students ahead of time.
If you are hosting a virtual discussion and one student loses internet, record the session and send them a link. No need to stop everything to try and fix it on the spot. The student can then view the link when the internet is back up and running and add their thoughts using Google Docs.
If the failure is on your end send out an email to reschedule or try again later.
Don’t forget old technology. Phone calls or even printing off lessons and sending them to students will limited access to devices or internet through the mail is still an option.
Know who to call when you are really in a bind. It might be the school’s IT department, another company or a friend.
Have a backup plan. Check out our resources for quick ideas to keep engagement high.
Have confidence. If you have confidence that learning will continue and set that expectation for your students, they will, in turn, have confidence in you!