• A laptop or desktop computer (Windows/Mac/Linux), preferably not more than two years old, with a modern and updated operating system and browser (preferably Chrome or Firefox).
• Plenty of storage space, either on your computer or via OneDrive.
• A stable internet connection that is not shared with too many housemates.
• A good camera and microphone, either integrated in your computer or a separate webcam and headset.
• If you are using a small laptop, an additional screen is also a good idea.

Kaltura Live Room

Lecturers use Kaltura Live Room principally for interactive online education. If this isn't possible, they may instead decide to use Zoom.

Zoom

Zoom is a video conferencing app for meetings of up to 300 people. Lecturers can give online education via Zoom. As a student, you can also make use of Zoom for online meetings. 

Getting started with Zoom

• Go to universiteitleiden.zoom.us
• Choose 'Sign in with SSO'
• Under organisation name, enter 'universiteitleiden'
• Log in with your ULCN account

Support

The Zoom Help Center can help you out and answer your questions by way of video tutorials, quick-start guides, FAQs, free training courses and webinars.

Security and privacy

As a student of Leiden University you can make use of the paid educational-version of Zoom for free. This means you can use Zoom in a secure way. 

• Only students and staff have access via their ULCN-accounts. This means that certain privacy settings are compulsory. 
• Zoom uses encryption and only servers in the EU are used to facilitate meetings.
• Zoom is not used for classes during which personal information or confidential research data will be discussed. 

Objection

Would you rather not use Zoom? Ask your lecturer for an alternative. If you can't reach a solution with your lecturer, contact your study adviser. If this doesn't resolve the issue, get in touch with Leiden University's data protection officer via fg@bb.leidenuniv.nl.

Guidelines and tips

Tips to make sure the applications work well: 

• Only put your camera on when strictly necessary.
• Close other browsers and applications. 
• When possible, use internet via a cable rather than Wi-Fi.
• If you use Wi-Fi, sit close to the router. If necessary, ask housemates to limit their use of internet applications such as Netflix when you are online. 
• Re-start your computer regularly to free-up temporary memory. 
• If needed, invest in extra memory for your computer.

Safe use of IT facilities

Take a look at the guidelines and tips for safe use of IT facilities.

Privacy and recorded lectures

• Some of your lecturers may wish to record online lectures so that students can re-watch them later. Before doing so, your lecturer will ask your permission and let you know the purpose of the recording, how and to whom it will be made available and how it will be stored. If you do not wish to be visible in the recording, make sure your camera is switched off.
• Note that the unauthorised photographing, recording, use or distribution of materials from online classes is prohibited.

Code of conduct

Take a look at the Code of Conduct Remote Teaching. Here you can find the rules and guidelines for both students and lecturers with respect to online education.  

Other education applications for use at home

Several applications that were previously only available via the university network can now be used at home. Find out which applications are available and how you can access them.

Planning and time management

• Structure your time. Try to act as if it’s a normal study day. Go to bed on time, get up on time, get dressed as usual and plan your day.
   
• Manage your time. Spend time thinking about your weekly schedule. Make sure you can achieve your learning goals and balance your time with other activities.
   
• Set goals. Look at your study guide and set clear, achievable goals for the day. Make sure that you break your objectives into digestible, small steps. Be realistic and remember to allocate a suitable amount of time to planning your schedule.
   
• Plan and take regular breaks. Spending a whole day interacting with people via your computer can be more intense than going from class to class. Don’t overdo it! Make sure to take regular breaks. Get some fresh air, take a walk, do some exercise and drink lots of water. Taking regular breaks also helps you process what you have learned and concentrate better. Use a tomato-timer (a web app based on the Pomodoro Technique) to help you focus on your studying while ensuring you take appropriate breaks. 
   
• Stick to your plan. By making and sticking to a plan, you will work more productively and be able to relax better. If you find it difficult to stick to your plan, ask housemates or other people to help you. 

Your workspace

• Create a quiet place to study at home. Only study in this designated place, not in bed or on the sofa. Make sure there are as few distractions as possible. Put your telephone elsewhere and ask housemates not to disturb you. 
• Or reserve a study space at the university. If you don’t have a suitable place to study at home, you can reserve a study space in a university building. Please note that spaces are limited.

• 'Arrive' early for online classes. Before your class commences, make sure you are able to attend. Check the instructions from your institution. Make sure you have the necessary technology and internet connection for the remote learning environment. Read about the IT facilities offered by the university and remember to always follow the advice on safe use of IT.
   
• Be flexible. Switching to remote learning might be a new experience for both you and your lecturer. Remain flexible and understanding towards the teacher and other students.
   
• Actively participate. Participating in remote lectures can be more challenging. Make sure to pay extra attention and involve yourself as much as possible. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. It’s likely your fellow students require similar guidance.
   
• Take notes. Just like in traditional classes, taking comprehensive notes means better knowledge retention. The online format provides other note-taking options by allowing you to access recordings of lectures or take screenshots. Re-assess how you take notes and whether online classes provide new opportunities to record what you have learned.
   
• Collaborate. Many online learning platforms have profile features that allow you to introduce yourself to your classmates. Use this opportunity to get to know who you are studying with. Engage in discussions via chat and forum functions. E-learning platforms have numerous ways to collaborate - take advantage of them to discuss class topics and feel part of a community.
   
• Keep calm and carry on. We all have different attention spans. New “classroom” environments and ways of learning might affect your focus. If your mind wanders, think about what you can do to help you stay focused. Consider eating healthy snacks or changing your study environment.
   
• Consolidate and reflect. Once the class is over, make sure you have taken everything in. Try summarising what you have learned. If there are any gaps, do further research or contact your lecturer or peers. Plan time to reflect on how your studying went on a weekly basis. What worked well for you? What would you like to do differently next week? Reflecting upon your successes and challenges will improve your ability to learn.