There’s no doubt that teaching in hybrid classrooms is a challenge. Students and teachers must work together to overcome challenges like sound issues, confusion during discussions, and navigating technological difficulties with video, among many other things.
Although there’s no single solution for all of these challenges, having the right classroom technology can make a huge difference in the efficiency of hybrid teaching as well as the students’ success. If you’re searching for advice on using microphones for hybrid teaching, here are three helpful tips from our classroom technology experts to boost the efficacy of your microphones.
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1. Have remote participants mute their microphones.
Just like noises in the classroom can be distracting, sounds from remote locations can also be very disruptive. To minimize distractions and keep the in-person classroom and remote classroom as quiet as possible, make sure remote participants all have their mics muted. Of course, students should un-mute themselves if they have a comment or question, but otherwise, muting everyone (except the instructor) for most of the session works best. This will help prevent unnecessary interruptions and ensure that all students can easily hear and communicate.
2. Speak closely to the room microphone.
While still maintaining proper social distancing, it’s best to speak as close to the room mic as possible. This is especially true if you’re wearing a mask. Students may struggle to hear the instructor through a mask or if they speak quietly. Although a microphone’s sound is never perfect, speaking very slowly and clearly while standing a short distance from the mic will help to minimize any issues students have hearing the instructor.
3. Consider using an external microphone that can be passed around the room.
Back-and-forth discussion can be hindered by the logistics of muting and unmuting select speakers to ensure sound quality. However, if you have the funds available, you can always purchase an external microphone. These can connect with a webinar and may be passed around the classroom for easier hybrid classroom discussion.
Related Post: Choosing the Right Classroom Sound Reinforcement System
Need Help With Your Hybrid Classroom Technology?
At American Sound, we can install a variety of classroom technologies such as sound systems to help you improve your current setup and maximize the efficacy of classroom microphones. Contact us today for more details about our classroom technology installation services.