GENERAL

What are Internet conferences? Internet conferencing uses technology to bring people from different geographic locations together for a meeting or class at a scheduled time.

Are these just online correspondence courses? No. Internet conferencing occurs in real time, so that the presenter and participant can communicate with each other during the session. In addition to being able to speak to each other, participants can share documents and online whiteboards. Of course, presenters from Lookstein web conferences are also available to the participants via e-mail for the duration of the course.

How do they work? The participants and presenter "meet" in cyberspace by logging into a website at a pre-determined day and time. The conferencing platform simultaneously shares audio and information so that participants can hear the presenter lecture, see PowerPoint slides, documents and mark up whiteboard. Participants can also interact with the presenter/other participants, by speaking into their microphones, or “chatting” using their keyboards.

What is a Lookstein Web Conference? Lookstein Web Conferences are online professional development opportunities for Jewish educators. Experts in the field run thought-provoking and relevant sessions on a variety of subjects. To see our schedule, click here.

TECHNICAL

What do I need to participate in a Lookstein web conference? It is very simple - all participants need a computer, a high-speed Internet connection and speakers. We recommend that you also use a microphone so that you can speak with the presenter and other participants and not just chat via the keyboard.

I don't have a microphone. Can I still participate? Yes. There is an option to communicate via the "chat" function, i.e. to type your comments and questions. Alternatively, there is a call-up option which you will see once you are connected. This option allows you to dial a New York City number and participate in the conference as you would a regular phone call. (If you choose this option, you will be charged the cost of the call on your next phone bill).

COST

What is the cost of a Lookstein web conference? The cost of the conference depends on the number of sessions. The flat cost for one session is $50 per school, with $50 extra for each subsequent session. If a conference has 2 sessions, the cost per school is $100, if a conference has three sessions, the cost is $150.

If my school pays, does that mean only I can attend? No. Your school can have an unlimited number of participants, provided they are logged onto one computer or network. If you have a small group, we recommend sitting around one computer. If your group is larger, beaming the screen image onto a blackboard or wall via a projector is generally more comfortable (you will have to arrange this on your own). We have had schools that have brought over fifteen teachers to a web conferencing series!

Special notice for member schools: Registered schools/institutions receive one Lookstein web conferencing series free of charge. All subsequent series are offered to members at 20% off.

More information can be found on our membership page or by writing to member@lookstein.org. To join the Lookstein Center educational community and take advantage of these benefits, click here.

To learn about our free grassroots project, click here.