Is Your Training Site Ready for You?

Among the worst nightmares of a workshop presenter are:

• not being able to get into the room
• not being able to use the equipment
• not being able to access the Internet

Here's a checklist to save yourself from embarrassing (or more serious) problems. Above all, to know what, if anything, you'll need to bring with you or arrange to have made available to you:

If you're using a computer lab -- in addition to all the classroom considerations mentioned below, make sure to:

• invite the person who operates the lab to be present
• have written instructions: how to operate the computers and access the Internet

If you're using a classroom, you will need:

• access to the room
• for each computer being used:
  • if using a PPP connection:
    • a dedicated phone line (i.e., a line without any other extensions)
    • suficiently long phone cord
  • a software/system configuration for Internet access
  • a Web browser
  • password(s) for the computers (if there's a software security system)
• written instructions on how to connect to the Internet Service Provider
• a projection device
  • instructions on how to use it and troubleshoot problems
  • access to its controls
  • if the device is an LCD panel:
    • a room which can be adequately darkened
    • instructions and cables for connecting the panel/computer/monitor
    • a sufficiently bright overhead projector (many aren't)
    • an extra bulb for the projector
  • a projection screen
  • an AV cart (if necessary for adjusting the projected image size)
• a power strip
• an extension cord

Posted: 26 May 1997
Comments and suggestions to: netv-web@umail.umd.edu