How to Organize A
Peer-to-Peer Videoconference

P.O. Box 827
11051 N. Cut Rd.
Roscommon, MI 48653
Phone: 989-275-6886
ATM# 120-7286
Fax: 989-275-5881
Email: trips@nmec.tv

First and foremost - Call or email the VTA!

There is a lot of coordination that needs to be done in order to have a peer to peer videoconference collaboration. But don't let that prevent you from planning one with other schools. The Virtual Travel Agency will assist you. The experience can be rewarding and enjoyable!

1. The first step is to come up with a project idea that would benefit from videoconferencing. With videoconferencing being fairly new to our area districts, this may be the hardest step. Often The Virtual Travel Agency can help you.
2. The next step is to find partners to participate in your project. Contact the Virtual Travel Agency and we will put the word out on various list servs and contact the schools for you.
3. Set date and time. Provide an optional date and time. It is easier to do this before you get your partners as their first question will often be "When?" Be sure to allow enough time to prepare for the activity.
4. The easiest way to share information with the other locations in your project is by using a webpage or email. Be sure to get email addresses as well as other contact information from all of your participating classrooms.
5. If you are working with other schools on a lengthy project, be sure to include a project timeline. If participating classrooms are going to share information they need and want to have plenty of time to prepare.
6. Have a schedule or agenda for the day of conference. Be sure to give everyone an opportunity to participate. The agenda should include:
   • Start and stop time or time limit.
   • What each school is responsible for. This may simply be their chosen topic to present.
   • Allow time for questions to be asked to each presenter/group.
   • Culminating activity. Introductions, background on research, praise and thank yous.
7. Have a back up plan. Have phone numbers and a contact for each site. Be prepared for the worst and have paper copies of all materials in case there are equipment or electrical failures.
8. Relax and have fun!