4.4.1 Various platforms may be used for delivery of synchronous learning (including but not limited to Zoom, GoTo Meeting and Adobe Connect). In addition to all other Commission requirements set forth in these Guidelines and the Commission's Rules and Regulations, synchronous courses must also satisfy the following requirements:
4.4.1.1 Student Technology Requirements
4.4.1.1.1 Students are required to have a device that has reliable internet access, video camera and working speakers so that they may interact in the class and their engagement can be monitored at all times.
4.4.1.1.2 Students are responsible for the performance of their own technology including audio volume, video clarity, and internet connection.
4.4.1.2 Security
4.4.1.2.1 A password and meeting number will be required for each class and will be included in the class invitation.
4.4.1.2.2 A waiting room will be utilized so that no one can enter the class that is not registered.
4.4.1.2.3 The instructor will admit each student from the waiting room, one-by-one, and verify their identity by driver's license or other acceptable picture identification.
4.4.1.2.4 Once the class has begun, the session must be "locked" and no one else can enter the class.
4.4.1.3 Login/Check-In
4.4.1.3.1 Each class will be open for admittance into a waiting room at least 15 minutes prior to the start time.
4.4.1.3.2 Depending on the class size, the time for admittance may be longer.
4.4.1.3.3 Admittance ends once the class has begun and the session is locked.
4.4.1.4 Monitoring
4.4.1.4.1 There will be a class monitor assigned for every 25 students or portion thereof, and the monitor will assure that each student on camera is in compliance with all Guidelines.
4.4.1.4.2 One of the following methods must be utilized to assure student compliance and engagement:
4.4.1.4.2.1 Screenshots taken at unannounced times to view each participant.
4.4.1.4.2.2 Polls that require responses by each student to assure their engagement which may address subjects just covered or be random questions to gain responses from each student in a short period of time.
4.4.1.4.2.3 The instructor may ask each student to "raise your hand" at any time during the session.
4.4.1.4.2.4 Students must be visible on camera at all times during the class to receive credit.
4.4.1.5 Attendance
4.4.1.5.1 The monitor must verify the attendance of each student on an attendance log, including the cumulative time that each student was online, that will be submitted to the Commission.
4.4.1.6 Testing
4.4.1.6.1 Testing is required and may be administered through the use of a fillable form emailed to or posted for each student to complete at the time of the test and returned to the instructor within the allotted time.
4.4.1.6.2 The instructor and monitor must proctor the test via video and each student must make themselves and their work area visible on video during the test.
4.4.1.6.3 No microphones may be muted during testing.
4.4.1.7 Course Provider Evaluation Form
4.4.1.7.1 The Course Provider Evaluation Form will be sent to each instructor in advance of the class.
4.4.1.7.2 The instructor will sign and scan back the Course Provider Evaluation Form to the course provider for submission to the Commission.
4.4.1.8 Student Evaluation Form
4.4.1.8.1 The Student Evaluation Form must be sent to each student electronically for the student to complete within 24 hours after the end of class.
4.4.1.8.2 Students must return the Student Evaluation form to the course provider within 24 hours of completion of the class in order to receive course credit and a certificate of completion for the class.
4.4.1.9 Certificates of completion must be forwarded electronically or mailed to each student upon successful completion of all course requirements.
4.4.1.10 Phone use and unrelated computer work during class is prohibited.
4.4.1.11 Cameras
4.4.1.11.1 All time off camera or while logged off will be recorded.
4.4.1.11.2 Students may not "step away" from the camera for any reason during the class. If an emergency arises, the "Chat" feature must be utilized to privately notify the instructor or monitor of the situation.
4.4.1.11.3 Cameras must remain stable during the class. Excessive camera movement is distracting and may result in removal from class at the instructor's discretion.
4.4.1.11.4 Students should choose a location that provides privacy and a non-distracting atmosphere both for themselves and those viewing via video and may not share a room with others unless this has been approved in writing in advance by the course provider in conjunction with the instructor.
4.4.1.12 Appropriate attire is required.