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Virtual classroom norms are the shared rules that make live online training work: join on time, keep your camera on, mute when not speaking, use the chat, avoid multitasking and respect others. Here are ten norms for delegates and tips for facilitators – see BOTI’s online masterclasses.
What a virtual classroom is
A virtual classroom is a live online learning space where a facilitator and delegates meet at the same time, usually by video conference. Typical tools include video, chat, breakout rooms, polls, an online whiteboard and controls for raising a hand or muting. Used well, a virtual classroom can be as interactive as a physical one.
Ten virtual classroom norms
- Join on time and test first. Log in a few minutes early to check your camera, microphone and connection.
- Keep your camera on where possible. It helps the facilitator read the room and keeps you engaged.
- Dress as you would for work.
- Mind your background. Choose a tidy, neutral background or use background blur.
- Sit at a desk or table, not on a bed or sofa.
- Mute when you are not speaking to cut background noise.
- Use the chat and raise-hand features to ask questions without interrupting.
- Do not talk over others. Video platforms handle overlapping voices badly, so interruptions get lost.
- Stay present. Close email and other tabs; multitasking means missing the content.
- Be respectful in writing. Avoid typing in capitals, keep chat messages on topic and assume good intent.
Making silence work
Pauses feel awkward on video, but they give people time to think and unmute. Facilitators can wait a few seconds after asking a question, invite answers in the chat, or call on people by name with care.
Why norms matter for learning
Clear norms reduce distractions and technical problems, make it easier for everyone to contribute and help delegates learn together. They matter most in collaborative activities such as breakout-room exercises, case studies and discussions.
Live online training at BOTI
BOTI runs most of its courses live online as well as in person – see how virtual training works and virtual classroom learning. For facilitators who run online sessions, see the Facilitation Skills Training Course (2 days); for confident online presenting, Presenting with Impact: Confident Online and Boardroom Presentations.
Frequently asked questions
What are virtual classroom norms?
They are shared rules for live online learning, such as joining on time, keeping cameras on where possible, muting when not speaking, using the chat for questions and not multitasking.
Should cameras be on in a virtual classroom?
Where possible, yes: cameras help the facilitator read the room and keep delegates engaged, although they should be encouraged rather than forced.
How do I ask a question without interrupting?
Use the raise-hand feature or type your question in the chat, and the facilitator will pick it up.
What is a virtual classroom?
A virtual classroom is a live online session where a facilitator and delegates meet at the same time, using video, chat, breakout rooms, polls and a whiteboard.
For facilitators who run live online sessions, BOTI’s Facilitation Skills Training Course (2 days) course. Training runs in-house at your premises, at BOTI’s venue in Sunningdale, Johannesburg, or live online. Call BOTI on 011 882 8853 or email [email protected], or request a quote. This course is not accredited. It is delivered as a professional skills programme, and delegates receive a BOTI certificate of attendance.