Video Calls

Video Calls

At Hallam, we use a combination of video conferencing platforms to keep you connected and engaged, whether you're joining a class or a meeting. 

Our online courses utilise Blackboard’s Class Collaborate, a user-friendly platform specifically designed for educational settings. And, for meetings and classes, we use Microsoft Teams, offering a familiar and feature-rich experience.

Class Collaborate

Is an online platform designed for teaching and learning. Imagine a live video conference with a twist: you can share a digital whiteboard, hold live chats, and even break into smaller groups for discussions, all within the same space.

 

To use Class collaborate:

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams keeps your communication and collaboration flowing at Hallam. This familiar platform lets you hold online meetings with fellow students, complete with video conferencing and screen sharing. Teams also integrates chat functionality, file sharing, and real-time document co-authoring, making it a one-stop shop for teamwork, all within a user-friendly interface.

 

Microsoft Teams can be accessed in four main ways: 

Download the Teams desktop app
Use the Teams browser version 
Download the Teams mobile application
Teams will be preinstalled if you borrow a SHU laptop.

Visit our Teams guidance for information about the full features of Microsoft Teams and login information.

Best practice

Joining online meetings can be nerve-wracking, especially when you're new. At Hallam we foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

Here are the top 5 tips to help you get started:
1. Find a quiet environment with good lighting.
2. Make sure your background is tidy or use a virtual backdrop.
3. Use a microphone or headset and check the video and audio settings before the call.
4. Always join a video call with your full name, so everyone knows who you are.
5. Stay professional, do not write or say anything inappropriate. 

FAQS

What is Microsoft Teams?
Microsoft Teams goes beyond a simple video conferencing tool. As a central hub within the Microsoft 365 suite, Teams empowers users to streamline communication and collaboration. Teams ends the need to switch between multiple applications, boosting productivity and fostering a more cohesive work environment.

Do I have access to MS Teams?
Yes. All Hallam staff and students* have access to MS Teams as part of their Microsoft 365 licence.

*Students at collaborative partners do not have a Hallam Microsoft account. They may have access to Teams at their home institution, but they will not be within Hallam's Teams environment (officially referred to as Hallam's Microsoft Tenant).

Can I run MS Teams on my personal device?
Absolutely. For personal computers and mobile devices, you can use the web version in a web browser. This is the easiest way as it doesn't require any installation. Alternatively, you can download the Teams app for your laptop, desktop, or mobile device.

Does MS Teams integrate with Blackboard Ultra?
The new integration between Blackboard Ultra and Microsoft Teams allows for the creation of scheduled teaching sessions within Blackboard sites. Student participants can be enrolled and managed directly from within the Blackboard environment.

What accessibility features does Teams have?
Teams meetings have automated live captions that each meeting attendee can turn on. Alternatively, they can be turned on for all meetings in Teams settings. There is also a profanity filter for captions that can be turned on/off Teams settings (it should be on by default)
Meetings are automatically transcribed if they are recorded. They can also be transcribed without recording. mean that anyone 
Teams has an Appearance and Accessibility section within settings 
Other accessibility features are present throughout M365 applications

Can I attend a Teams online event/tutorial from my mobile phone or mobile device?
Yes, the Teams mobile app works well:
Attending a meeting on a mobile is generally a good experience, when necessary, though it should not be your main way of attending meetings. Attendees can take part quite well in terms of speaking, reacting, partaking n polls, Q&A and chat etc. The main downside is the screen size can make it harder to see shared content, but you can zoom and scroll. Also be aware of the camera angle so others aren't looking up your nose, try to find a quiet location or use headphones, and make sure you are on mute if you are somewhere noisy and not speaking.

Running a meeting on a mobile is also doable if you are just speaking. It is harder to share content well and needs preparation so this should be a last resort.

Can I share recordings?
You cannot share recordings without the permission of the owner. Sharing recordings without consent is a privacy violation. To ensure everyone's comfort and privacy, please obtain permission from the owner before sharing any recordings.

How to get support

If you have any problems with Video call software please contact the IT Service Desk