Thank you for your interest in my classes. I’ve been teaching Tarot and magical workshops for several decades, but moving them online has taken a lot of extra consideration and planning, and I want to make sure you are having the best possible experience.
Whether you’re new to online learning or a seasoned veteran, here are a few things that can help you get the most out of your class with me.
The Waiting Room
I open up the Zoom link about 15 or so minutes before the official start time. During that time, my tech assistant Christine and I will be making sure everything is running smoothly. So if you connect early, you may have to hang out in the Zoom “waiting room” area for a little while. Don’t worry, we’ll let you in as soon as we are sure everything is all set to go, and as soon as we know for certain who you are.
Because of that last bit, please keep an eye on the “chat box.” If we are not sure of your identity (ex: your “Zoom name” in the waiting room, and the name you registered with don’t match) we might send you a chat message while you are waiting, asking you to verify who you are.
Can You Hear Me Now? What About Now?
To cut down on background noise, I will have everyone muted, until it’s time to talk and share. And if you “fall off” or get disconnected for some reason, just dial back in again.
☛ But don’t worry! All the tech stuff will be explained by Christine at the very beginning, including how to use the chat box, raise your hand, and use emojis. We’ll also be doing lots of practice exercises in the break out rooms, so please be prepared to talk and don’t be shy about turning your camera on.
One of the lovely perks of these classes is all the friendships that are possible as we meet with kindred spirits from all over the world. That includes lots of different time zones, so if you’re in your jammies, we don’t mind one bit! In fact, you probably aren’t the only one! 😀
But speaking of the tech stuff, here’s what you can do ahead of time, to have a smooth, enjoyable experience:
* SUPER IMPORTANT: Please make sure you are running the most recent update of Zoom. Super-savvy tip: double check this the same day of our class; Zoom seems to like to release new versions when you least expect it!
* Even though you’ll be muted, please turn off phones and other devices in the background that may ring, buzz, or boop. That includes external drive backups like “Time
Machine” & other noisy stuff, especially
apps that send notifications, like emails.
* Please use the most reliable internet connection you’ve got, and the biggest screen you can muster. There are always lots of visuals, and trying to see teensy details on a phone, or all the beautiful faces of the people in your breakout room could end up being pretty frustrating.
* Also, Zoom does not offer all the same features on tablets and phones as it does on laptops and desktop computers, so that might affect your experience, too. Just so you know.
Most important of all, I hope you’ll make the most of this special time you have given yourself. Enjoy yourself, knowing you are in a safe, welcoming space. See you soon!