Advisor Resources: Virtual Advising

Video Advising Tips:

• Verify student has received the video conferencing information and appointment time.
• Communicate expectations that you would like for them to have access to a computer in a quiet space during the appointment, but be understanding if that is not possible.
• Think about what the background behind you looks like on camera (some platforms blur the background or allow you to select an alternate background, i.e. Hogwarts!).
• Some students may not feel comfortable using their camera during a video conference appointment, and that is OK. Use the audio function of the conference and allow the student to see you.
• Consider using screen share so that both you and the student are viewing the same items at the same time. This will reduce confusion and also ensure that the student doesn't get lost in verbal navigation.
• Recognize that a student may or may not have control over the external environment they are in at the time of the appointment. If they are home, there may be other people/siblings/pets and/or external noises which they cannot control. 
• Refer the student to the AASC Student Resources Blackboard course for self-registration instructions and how-to videos.
• Remind the student that they must self-register for classes within 48 hours of the advising appointment. 
• After the appointment, send a follow-up email with a recap of what was discussed. 
• Record advising notes for yourself should the student contact you again.

Zoom and Microsoft Teams are great video chat services that are suitable for virtual advising appointments. 

It's a good idea to follow-up a video advising appointment with an email to recap what was discussed, any website links or PDFs that the student should look at, and any additional information that the student should know at that time. 

Thanks for video conferencing with me today. I am pleased to hear about your how well your semester is going, despite the circumstances. I like your decision to retake CIS 105 this winter - that will help advance your degree progress and replace this semester's failed grade. And the courses you selected for the spring semester also fall in line with your degree requirements for Liberal Arts. 

I've granted you clearance to register for both winter and spring classes. Please use the Student Portal to self-register within the next 48 hours. If you need a little help, you can see detailed instructions and how-to videos in your Blackboard AASC Student Resources course. You may also contact the AASC at aasc@garrettcollege.edu or 301-387-3715 for support. I look forward to talking with you again soon!