Online Learning Programs at OsgoodePD
We offer a number of online learning programs for students to study and attend classes virtually. Depending on your choice of courses or program, it may be possible for you to attend entirely in-person, or entirely online, or a mix of in-person and online. A small number of our offerings are completely self-paced and asynchronous.
More often, you may have the option of participating in OsgoodePD classes via videoconferencing technology. Our two-way interactive video streaming allows students in the classroom and online to interact seamlessly, participating in discussions, asking questions, and giving or viewing presentations in real time whether from the classroom or anywhere across the world. We strive to ensure that distance learning and in-person participants have comparable class experiences.
Program Expectations
The program is an active one; courses are seminar-style and may involve any or all of the following: class discussions, breakout group work, individual presentations, and group presentations. Participation is frequently a component of the method of evaluation of our courses.
For this reason, our expectation is that you will join online classes from a location with reliable Internet connectivity and will use equipment which is suitable for the purpose. While mobile devices such as iPads will work, PCs or Macs will offer more flexibility. Joining classes from a mobile phone is not recommended.
Consider your environment, particularly with regard to sound; being in the room with a barking dog, for example, is not ideal. Similarly, while it may be appealing to take class from your balcony or patio, wind noise will often make it difficult for you to be heard.
General System Requirements
The goal is that you are able to actively participate in your courses without your video or audio distracting your fellow students or interrupting the flow of the class. If you are unsure about the suitability of your setup, feel free to send a note to vcsupport@osgoode.yorku.ca and we will be happy to arrange a test call to assess.
Computer: It is impossible to provide a comprehensive list of acceptable specifications, however a good rule of thumb is a computer that is “recent and decent”, generally defined as a computer which was purchased within four years and cost at least CDN$750. Many computers which fall outside this guideline will also be perfectly acceptable.
Microphone: Many built-in microphones are perfectly adequate. Wired earbuds with inline microphones (such as those which often ship with mobile phones) are often adequate as long as they are functioning normally. Headsets with boom microphones offer a superior experience for you, your instructors, and your fellow students. If you are using wireless/Bluetooth, ensure that the connectivity is consistent (and don’t forget to charge before class!).
Camera: If you are using a laptop, many built-in cameras are acceptable (generally newer computers have better cameras). If you are using a desktop or an external monitor and your built-in camera is not adequate or not functioning, or if you would like to ensure that you are contributing the best-quality video possible, you can consider the following models:
- Logitech: C920, C920s, C922 (these three models are essentially equivalent and a de facto industry standard, offer good value, and are commercially available)
- Logitech: StreamCam Plus, Brio series (more upscale)
- Poly Studio P5 (new product, slightly less common but very high-quality)
- Microsoft LifeCam Cinema, LifeCam Studio (good quality, commercially available)
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