From Webcams to Cables, What Do You Need to Teach Remotely?

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Many of the school systems we work with are starting the year with some form of hybrid learning. One question we keep hearing over and over is “what do you need to teach remotely?”

The short answer is you don’t need a professional recording and streaming setup. Whether you’re remotely teaching from your classroom or your living room, there are a few basics you’ll need:

  • Internet Connection
  • Webcams
  • Tripods and Cell Phone Accessories
  • Microphones
  • An Engaging At-Home Teaching Environment

Here are some tips and considerations that will help you make the most of your remote teaching environment without breaking the bank.

Internet Connection

Sending and receiving video uses a lot of data transmission. An internet connection of 3-5 Mbps (megabits per second) should be the bare minimum connection speed for remote teaching/learning. Most providers have basic packages that at least meet this requirement, but without a reliable connection, video and audio will be choppy at best.

A wired connection is preferred to a wireless connection. Wi-Fi can be prone to interference and instability and could result in poor quality video and audio. If only wireless is available, then steps should be taken to make sure the connection is as stable as possible. Most routers today will have an option to connect to 2 different networks. One is 2.4Ghz and one is 5Ghz. The main difference is that 2.4Ghz will travel farther (and through obstructions, like walls) better, but will not be as fast as 5Ghz. Make sure that the devices you’re using have a strong connection to whichever network is available. If you’re located close to the router or access point, 5Ghz should work just fine and will be faster, but you’ll have to determine that based on the setup of your school/home/office.

If your home network doesn’t have a lot of bandwidth, try to limit other online activity while teaching. Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu can use a lot of data and can degrade the connection quality for other activity on the network.

Key takeaways:

  • Use an Internet connection speed of a minimum of 3-5 Mbps
  • Use a wired connection
  • Limit other streaming activity in your home while teaching

Webcams

Most laptops today have some sort of integrated webcam. They are usually located at the top of the screen on the bezel of the laptop. These cameras work well for face-to-face instruction (i.e. Zoom meetings) but can be limiting when it comes to covering “hands-on” learning virtually. Investing in a separate webcam can help you capture a physically larger teaching space.

We recommend sticking to a reputable brand of webcams, like Logitech. These offer better support and compatibility with a variety of different types of computers compared to other brands. However, be sure to check price histories to determine what should be the general MSRP. Unfortunately, many webcam prices have skyrocketed recently due increased demand.

We tested several webcams and our top picks are the Logitech C920 (about $90) and the Logitech C615 (about $40). While both are HD webcams with autofocus and integrated microphones, the picture and sound quality of the C920 is a bit clearer than the C615.

If you don’t have budget for a webcam, you can use your own cell phone. This is a great option because a) cameras on cell phones – even older models – are fairly high quality; and b) it’s portable – as long as you’re connected to the same network as your computer, you can show just about anything.

We prefer the app EpocCam, which is available for Android and Apple devices. Once the app is installed, install the drivers for your PC. Then start the app on your phone and the computer should recognize the phone as a webcam. For a more detailed explanation of this setup, see this video and blog tutorial from my colleague Alex Baddock.

Key takeaways:

  • When possible, go with a reputable brand (like Logitech) but be critical of price
  • Consider using your cell phone as a webcam, using an app like EpocCam

Tripods and Cell Phone Accessories

With whichever external camera option you choose, you’ll also need a tripod or stabilizing accessories for the best video quality.

Tripods, like the two we use (here and here) can help with more optimal positioning and steady holding of the webcam.

If using a cell phone as a webcam, consider using a stabilizing gimbal or flexible arm mount. The stabilizing gimbal will help smooth out video shot on the move, for example if you are holding and walking with your phone shooting around a portable training system.

For stationary setups, a flexible arm mount can help stabilize your phone positioned in any configuration you need. It is recommended that you mount the arm on a different surface than one that is being used to work on since any movement in the table could cause the camera/arm to shake.

Key takeaways:

Microphones

Most webcams, whether integrated or external have some sort of built-in microphone. These are adequate for the occasional virtual meeting but if you’re looking at a full semester (or more) of remote teaching and recording, stepping up to a higher end microphone can significantly improve sound quality that is recorded.

One of the main concerns regarding sound quality is feedback loops. This occurs when sound comes out of a speaker and into an un-muted microphone and plays back through the speaker. A feedback loop happens indefinitely and can result in interruptions as well as a very unpleasant sound.

We use the Yeti Nano microphone from Blue Brands for our remote trainings. As a condenser microphone, it offers superior sound quality and less “noise” than a typical integrated microphone would. It costs about $100. (Again, try to avoid paying a premium due to pricing surges here.)

Lapel microphones are another great option because the fixed distance from you when you speak ensures consistent sounds quality. Lapel microphones can be wired or wireless and can range in quality from bargain microphones to TV station quality, with pricing to match. Wireless lapel microphones also offer a freedom of movement that cannot be achieved with a desktop or wired lapel microphone.

Key takeaways:

  • Our top pick is the Yeti Nano (Blue Brands)
  • Lapel microphones are another great option – and pricing often reflects quality
  • No matter the microphone, try to avoid feedback loops

Create and Ideal At-Home Teaching Environment

It’s fairly simple to create an ideal virtual teaching environment that is free of clutter or distractions.

For those of you teaching from home, consider a solid backdrop. Hang a curtain or solid colored sheet behind the camera for a simple, low hassle backdrop. Alternately, set up a simple background that features items and signage that enhances the subject matter. This could be a chalkboard or whiteboard for illustrating concepts or a work desk with props and items for demonstration.

Also, make sure lighting is adequate and test it with your setup before starting a teaching session. While some teachers may elect to use a light diffusing device, this isn’t always necessary. Just make sure the light source is in front of you and not too harsh.

Eliminate background noise as much as possible. Find a quiet place in your home. Sometimes using heavy blankets to hang around the area can help deaden outside sounds.

Add a little personalization! It’s difficult to engage students from afar but inviting your students into something familiar or personal can help set the stage for a welcoming, engaging environment.

Key takeaways:

  • Establish a solid backdrop
  • Ensure adequate lighting
  • Eliminate background noise
  • Personalize your space
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