Dear Volunteer,
Thank you for choosing to volunteer with us!
Basic Guidelines:​
As part of our initiative, you will receive a weekly email from our team containing a Google Form where you can select your preferred date and time for your volunteer service. This helps us plan effectively and accommodate your availability. Once selected, our team will coordinate and arrange a Google Meet session, after which you will receive all the necessary details. We truly appreciate your dedication and look forward to working with you to make a meaningful impact! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.
Online Class Guidelines:​
To ensure a smooth and engaging learning experience, please follow these Do’s and Don’ts while conducting online sessions.
✅ Do’s:
1. Plan and Prepare Well
• Define clear learning objectives and outcomes.
• Create an agenda with structured activities to maintain engagement.
• Prepare interactive content like quizzes, videos, and visuals.
2. Test Technology Beforehand
• Test audio, video, and internet connectivity.
• Familiarize yourself with the platform - Google Meet.
• Have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties.
3. Set Clear Rules and Expectations
• Establish ground rules (muting, raising hands, staying attentive).
• Communicate expectations for behaviour and participation at the start.
• Set a time limit to keep the session focused and avoid fatigue.
4. Engage with Interactive Activities
•Include polls, quizzes, breakout rooms, and Q&A sessions.
•Use storytelling, games, or real-life examples to maintain interest.
•Encourage participation by asking open-ended questions.
5. Ensure Safety, Privacy, and Consent
•Use password-protected links to avoid unauthorized access.
•Enable waiting rooms to screen participants.
•Obtain institution permission before taking or using any pictures, videos, or recordings of the children.
•Inform parents if the session will be recorded and explain how the content will be used.
6. Keep Sessions Short and Focused
•Limit sessions to 30–45 minutes for younger children and 60 minutes for older ones.
•Include short breaks if sessions are longer to avoid fatigue.
7. Encourage Participation and Interaction
•Call on children by name to make them feel involved.
•Use visual aids, hand gestures, and facial expressions to engage them.
•Encourage feedback and questions at regular intervals.
8. Follow Up and Provide Resources
•Share learning materials, videos, and assignments after the session.
•Provide a summary or recording for students who missed the session.
•Offer support or clarifications through email or messages.
9. Create an Inclusive Learning Environment
•Ensure that all students feel welcome and valued.
•Be mindful of language barriers and speak clearly.
10. Use a Professional and Friendly Tone
•Speak clearly and confidently with a friendly approach.
•Use positive reinforcement to motivate students.
11. Adapt to Different Learning Styles
•Some students learn better through visuals, while others prefer audio or hands-on activities.
•Use a mix of videos, slides, discussions, and interactive exercises.
12. Be Patient and Supportive
•Understand that some students may need more time to grasp concepts.
•Provide extra resources or one-on-one support if needed.
13. Stay Updated on Best Practices
•Keep learning about new online teaching strategies.
•Attend training sessions or workshops to improve online facilitation skills.
🚫 Don’ts:
1. Don’t Start Without Technical Checks
•Avoid assuming that the internet, mic, or camera will work perfectly.
•Do not delay the session due to last-minute tech issues.
2. Don’t Overload with Content
•Avoid presenting too much information at once.
•Keep content concise and avoid long lectures.
3. Don’t Ignore Student Engagement
•Don’t just talk — involve students in discussions.
•Avoid reading directly from slides or notes for long durations.
4. Don’t Allow Unmonitored Access
•Avoid sharing meeting links publicly.
•Don’t allow anyone to join without verification or supervision.
5. Don’t Use or Share Student Pictures Without Consent
•Do not take screenshots, pictures, or videos of children without prior institutional consent.
•Avoid sharing any images or recordings of children on social media or public platforms without explicit permission.
•Do not display student names alongside pictures to maintain privacy.
6. Don’t Neglect Interaction and Breaks
•Avoid one-way communication; children may lose interest quickly.
•Don’t go beyond the scheduled time without a short break.
7. Don’t Use Complex Platforms Without Training
•Avoid using software or platforms that children are unfamiliar with.
•Don’t assume all children have the same tech knowledge.
8. Don’t Ignore Background Noise or Distractions
•Ensure a quiet environment for yourself and ask participants to do the same.
•Mute participants if background noise becomes distracting.
9. Don’t Skip Feedback and Reflection
•Don’t end the session without asking for feedback.
•Avoid missing out on reflecting on what worked and what can be improved.
10. Don’t Ignore Technical Assistance
•If a participant is struggling with technical issues, provide support or guidance.
•Have a help guide or instructions on using Google Meet.
11. Don’t Multitask or Get Distracted
•Avoid checking emails, messages, or browsing during the session.
•Stay focused and attentive to the students’ responses and needs.
12. Don’t Overuse Slides or Text-Heavy Content
•Avoid using slides with too much text—keep it visually engaging.
•Use bullet points, images, and short explanations instead of large text blocks.
13. Don’t Allow Interruptions or Side Conversations
•Ensure that students respect the speaker and don’t talk over each other.
•If using chat features, guide students on when and how to use them appropriately.
14. Don’t Assume Every Student Has the Same Internet Speed
•Some students may have slow connections—speak at a steady pace.
•Be ready to repeat information if someone faces connectivity issues.
15. Don’t Forget to End on a Positive Note
•Conclude with a quick recap of key points.
•Thank students for their participation and encourage them to ask questions later.
16. Don’t Share or Collect Personal Information
•Do not share your phone number, email, address, or any personal details during the session.
•Avoid collecting personal information from students or other participants.
•If specific details are required, Shishu Mandir will provide the necessary information through official communication channels.