Virtual Training With SAI Global

What is Virtual Training and how is it different from regular face to face training?

SAI Global’s Virtual Training is conducted by a qualified facilitator under conditions quite like classroom-based training. The course material, documentation and assessment requirements are the same as face to face training. However, the way the training is delivered, activities are conducted and the number and timing of breaks has been modified to suit the requirements of a virtual environment. The type of in-class activities and the actual number and timing of breaks will vary depending on the course being delivered.

What are the technology requirements for taking part in Virtual Training?

The minimum technology requirements are:

A laptop / desktop (min 4GB memory) with a webcam.

Headset with microphone

A hard-wired broadband/ADSL Internet connection is strongly recommended.

Minimum bandwidth: 4Mbps download & 2Mbps upload.

VPN connections should be disabled as they may interfere with Virtual Platform connectivity (if you have a corporate VPN your IT people can help with this. If you have a private VPN and you are unsure how to disable it, you should contact your VPN provider)

Firewall requirements for Corporate Networks:

TCP: 80, 443, 8801, 8802. UDP: 8801 & 8802

Remote labs: 3389 TCP (RDP protocol).

Administrative permissions to install the Zoom plugin (not required if you use Chrome or Firefox web browsers)

I’m not very tech savvy. How can I check if it will work on my system?

A. You can test the performance of your hardware and internet connection by clicking on the below link or copying and pasting it into your browser then following the prompts. https://zoom.us/test

How do I install/get set up with Zoom?

Before each session you will be sent an email from either SAI Global or our venue partner inviting you to the upcoming training session. The email will contain a link to the session or “meeting”. Click this link when you get the first invitation to try it out. The first time you click the link you will be asked to follow a prompt allowing the system to automatically install a Zoom browser plugin. This should only take between 10 and 20 seconds. You will also be asked to enter your name. This is the name that will appear below your video stream so that the facilitator and other participants know who you are. You do not need to “sign up” with Zoom prior to attending a virtual training session.

How will I access the materials I need for the training course?

Training material including such things like your Participant Guide, Case Study, Standard(s), End of Day Knowledge Checks, Post Course Assessment and Assessment Workbook/Evidence Portfolio will be sent as hard copy by surface mail to your nominated address. A .PDF version of the above will also be supplied on request.

Are there any safety issues I should be aware of when preparing for Virtual Training?

First and foremost is the need to ensure that your environment is safe. This should include, but not be limited to, checking things like: trip hazards and housekeeping around your designated work space, adequate lighting, the ergonomic set up of your workstation (e.g. is your chair comfortable and at the right height? Do you have a clear space to work with any hard-copy training material?). Ensure that you take breaks from the screen when your facilitator nominates a scheduled pause in delivery. If you feel the need for additional breaks please make it known to your facilitator.

What else should I do to prepare for a Virtual Training session?

In most ways virtual training is the same as being in a classroom with other learners and the same preparations should apply. Consider things like:

Set aside enough time for the entire class as you would for classroom-based training.

Select a location that is free of distractions and noise pollution (this is for your own benefit and for the benefit of others in the session).

You must have your camera on during the session so ensure your background is clear of visual distraction or material that may be offensive to other participants.

Familiarise yourself with the operation of your hardware set up and with the Zoom interface as much as possible prior to the session

Since your camera will be on and you will be visible, dress as if you expect to be in the physical presence of others in an adult learning environment.

What should I be aware of during the delivery of the training?

Be prepared to conduct yourself as you would in a class room. Be particularly aware of the following:

Mobile phones and other devices should be switched off or on silent as would be the case in a regular training environment. If you have an urgent call, excuse yourself from the session in the same way that you would if you were physically present in a classroom.

Try to limit multi-tasking. Don’t check or read emails while in the session. It is easy for others to tell if you are not fully focussed and present.

Be courteous to other participants and do not interrupt others when they are speaking and do not carry on side conversations.

Mute your microphone when not speaking. When it is your turn to speak, speak clearly but do not shout.

Maintain eye contact by looking at the camera – try and avoid looking at yourself on the screen. Also try and avoid too many body movements as these can appear exaggerated when on camera.

Do not leave the vicinity unannounced (to answer the door or deal with an unanticipated distraction). If you must manage an unexpected issue, excuse yourself from the session and remember to turn your microphone and your camera off while you are away.

Return promptly from scheduled breaks as the facilitator is obliged to keep to expected timetable and the other participants have the right to expect the session to run as planned too.

I want to achieve a Nationally Recognised Qualification. Can I still be assessed for and be awarded the same National Units of Competency as with face to face training?

Yes, while the method(s) of assessment may have been modified to suit a virtual environment, SAI Global qualified assessors will still ensure that adequate rigour is applied and the principles of assessment are employed.

How will exams and assessments work in a Virtual Training environment?

In-class activities will be assessed by your facilitator on the day using the collaboration tools within the Zoom technology platform. Your facilitator will work with you to enable the daily submission of End of Day Knowledge Checks via electronic submission. Post Course Assessment submission will not change from the existing process using a portal to upload assessable files.