- Digital Learning
- Technology and Zoom Video Conferencing Guidelines

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Guidelines for the use of Technology and Resources in Virtual Learning
Technology Resources:
Birdville virtual learning includes the use of, but is not limited to, the following network and computer technologies, apps, email, and cloud-based systems:
- Internet Access: district-issued hotspot or personal home wi-fi network
- Computing Device: district-issued Chromebooks or students’ personal laptop, tablet, or smartphone
- Student Email: Outlook
- Learning Management System (LMS): Canvas
- Video Conferencing Application: Zoom
- Learning Apps: Applications located in the BISD Portal (Classlink) at http://my.birdvilleschools.net
- Cloud-based Productivity: G Suite for Schools, Office365
Expectations require that students use these resources in safely and ethically
Responsible Use
In addition to the Technology Responsible Use Guidelines outlined in the Student Handbook, students will adhere to the following guidelines when using the technologies, apps, email, LMS, and cloud-based systems to participate in Birdville virtual learning:
1. Users will not use the district's or personal electronic technologies in synchronous (live - such as Zoom) or asynchronous (self-paced) virtual learning settings to display, access, review, upload, download, complete, store, print, post, receive, transmit or distribute:
- Pornographic, obscene, or sexually explicit material or other visual depictions.
- Obscene, abusive, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude, inflammatory, threatening, disrespectful, or sexually explicit language.
- Obscene, abusive, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude, inflammatory, threatening, disrespectful, or sexually explicit objects, or
- Materials that use language or images that advocate violence or discrimination toward other people that may constitute harassment, discrimination, or threatens others' safety.
2. Users will not use the district's or personal electronic technologies to knowingly or recklessly display, post, transmit or distribute false or defamatory information about a person or organization, or to harass another person, or to engage in personal attacks, including prejudicial or discriminatory attacks.
3. Users will comply with the Birdville ISD dress code and student conduct code requirements in all virtual synchronous learning activities.
Zoom Video Conferencing Guidelines and Expectations for Students and Families
The following guidelines are the expectations for students and families related to Zoom video conferencing meetings and live instruction sessions:
Mute your microphone if you aren’t talking – This helps keep background noise to a minimum. When your microphone is not muted, avoid activities that could create additional noise, such as shuffling papers. Also, be sure to turn off the TV and music in the background.
Be prepared - Just like any class at school, it’s important to have all your materials ready to go. Have your notebook and pen/pencil ready to take notes
Be on time – It is even smart to be a few minutes early. Set an alarm if you have a hard time remembering when to log on.
Use your real name.
Stay on task, limit distractions, and participate actively - You can make it easier to focus on the meeting by turning off notifications, closing or minimizing running apps, and muting your smartphone. Using headphones with a mic is also helpful in blocking out the distractions around you. Sit at a desk or your kitchen table so you can have more focus.
Avoid multi-tasking – You'll retain the discussion and learning better if you refrain from replying to emails or text messages during the meeting.
Stay in one spot during your call – It’s distracting for your classmates to see you moving around your house. Find a quiet spot where you will be comfortable for the whole class and make it your classroom spot.
Wait for your turn – Follow the teacher’s instructions for volunteering and don’t blurt out an answer unless you are called on. Raise your hand (or click the Raise Hand button) instead of interrupting so that the teacher can finish the instructions before you jump in.
Beware of your surroundings – Your teacher and classmates can also see BEHIND you. Make sure that there is nothing in the background that may distract from the class. Anything in your background must be school-appropriate.
Skip the virtual backgrounds - These can be very distracting to other students. Unless a teacher requests it, do not post a background.
Do not record or take photos of Zoom meetings – Students and parents are expected to respect other students’ privacy.
Do not share the video conference link with anyone.
Be respectful in your actions and speech.
Dress the part – Think about what you’d wear to school and dress accordingly. Make sure any shirt you are wearing doesn’t have any offensive graphics or text on it.