Teaching from Home with Webex

Owned by Dan Jakubiak
Last updated: Nov 28, 2022
3 min read

Instructors can use Webex to conduct their classes if they are unable to attend in person. This article provides an overview and recommendations for instructors and students using the Webex service. 

Learning About Webex

  • The use of a VPN is not necessary; Webex is hosted on the internet and therefore not constricted to any local network (i.e., UCONN-SECURE). Using a VPN may cause problems, as it introduces an increase in latency and adds another point of failure.

  • Do not connect to a remote computer in your office or use AnyWare; you will not be able to share a webcam or microphone in either direction. Be sure to run Webex locally on your computer at home.
    If you need to access files from another computer, be sure to transfer them before you begin your class or use Office 365's online storage to access your files.

  • Decide whether you will be holding classes consistently at the same time or if your schedule is more fluid. If your class is going to be real-time, also known as "synchronous learning," it must occur at its usual time.

    • Classes will be held at the same time: Learn how to Schedule your classes.

    • The schedule will be more fluid: If you plan on having a more fluid schedule, you can share your Personal Room information. Your Personal Room is always available for you to open and connect with Participants. The link to your Personal Room is unchanging. Learn more at Sharing Webex Personal Room Information.

Do not use a VPN and do not connect to your computer on campus.

Preparing Your Virtual Classroom

  • uconn-cmr.webex.com is used to schedule and edit meetings

  • ITS recommends that you use the Desktop App to Host your classes to have access to the full suite of Host controls.

  • Make sure you have a reliable local network connection by using an Ethernet (wired) connection rather than Wi-Fi.
    If you must use Wi-Fi, be sure to sit in the same room as the Wi-Fi access point (router). A direct neighboring room should work just as well depending on your Wi-Fi access point and the construction materials of your house. Ensuring that you have a strong local network connection will give your computer the best chance at creating a stable and enjoyable Webex experience.
    Use this guide to learn more about bandwidth requirements.

    • Do not sit too close to your WiFi access point (router); keep at least 4 feet of distance from your router to prevent performance degradation.  

  • Test your webcam/microphone in a call with a coworker.

  • Practice recording. The recording can be arranged in different layouts. Use this guide to decide which layout you would like to use: Webex Recording Options.

  • During your class, you and your students are able to share the computer screen. Use this guide to learn how to share your presentation.

  • Create Polling questions ahead of time. Learn how to create Polling Questions.  

Teaching Your Class

  • If using a laptop, use the power supply rather than running off the battery.

  • Learn how to manage Participant (student) privileges during your class: Participant Privacy & Privileges in Webex Meetings.

  • Contact the ITS Technology Support Center when you have your issue – not after your class.

  • If you would like to record your class, press the Record button within the Webex window on your laptop. Learn how to Record and manage your Recordings online.

    record button

Tips for Securing Your Webex Meeting

Learn how to host a secure, professional environment by Securing your Webex Meeting.

Viewing Attendance Reports

After your class concludes, you may view an attendance report by following this guide: View/Export Webex Attendance.

There may be legitimate technical issues that prevent students from participating in a session. CETL recommends that you have an alternative way for student to be graded in case they could not attend.