What is a Teleclass?

A teleclass is a convenient way of taking a seminar without having to leave your house!

It is basically a conference call where everyone dials the same number at the same time, but gives their individual access code. A facilitator (in this case, Dr. Alisa Cooper) leads the class and keeps it running smoothly. Class time is composed primarily of informative lecture, some questions and some discussion, if time permits. People call in from all over the country and sometimes from other countries as well.

Aside for the minimal cost of the teleclass itself, you pay for the long distance call as per your long-distance carrier, with no additional conferencing fees.

Once you register for the teleclass, you will receive an email with the telephone number and access code. Keep this information in a safe place where you will be sure to find it on the day of the teleclass.

Right Before You Call

Here are some guidelines to help you get the  most  out of your teleclass:

Step 1: Use the rest room before the class. Find a nice, quiet and comfortable space from which to make the call, and perhaps bring along a cup of herbal tea to sip throughout. Reduce, or better yet, eliminate all background noise which might distract other participants.

Step 2: Disable “call waiting” just before dialing in. Call your local carrier for specific instructions on how to temporarily disable and then re-enable call waiting. This is easy to do and costs nothing.

Step 3: For the sake of sound clarity, it’s best to use a land-line phone. Only use a cell phone if you must.

Step 4: If you have a two-line phone, please turn the ringer off on the second line to avoid a distracting sound should a call come in.

Step 5: Call the phone number for the teleclass at the designated time. If you receive a busy signal or the phone rings but won’t connect, double-check the time, time zone, and phone number for the call.

Teleconference Etiquette

Avoid unknowingly distracting others. Be sure to hold the mouthpiece or telephone headset away from your mouth and nose until you are speaking. It is amazing how distracting it is to listen to someone else’s heavy breathing!

Speakerphone know-how. Speakerphones are fine, but do not speak into them when sharing. Pick up the handset when you share, and then hit mute when you are merely listening.

Sharing. Introduce yourself when you first come on the call. “Hi, this is Susan from Dallas…” and then give your name each time you are about to speak. “Hi, this is Susan again…” No need to shout, but do speak up. If you have trouble hearing someone clearly, politely interrupt and say so.