Working together online

A pioneer in remote learning, The Chernik Group specializes in engaging students and building productive relationships with them online. It is our connection to each of our clients that creates the foundation for the transformative work we do together. We have been successfully conducting virtual sessions with our clients, including clients with learning disabilities and ADHD, for well over a decade.

We work with clients online using video conferencing — including Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime — and tools for real-time collaboration such as the Zoom whiteboard and Google docs. You may download Zoom here and Skype here.

To ensure a strong connection during our sessions, we recommend the following best practices.

Operating Systems
Windows
    • Windows 7 (32-bit and 64-bit versions) or higher

Mac
    • OS X 10.10 (Yosemite) or higher

Mobile
    • Android devices - OS 6.0 and up
    • iPhone & iPad - iOS 9.0 and up

Computer Specifications
Processor
    • Dual-core 2GHz (i3/i5/i7) Processor

Memory
    • 4GB RAM +

Internet Connection
At minimum, a 10/1 high-speed internet connection is recommended: 10Mbps download speed/ 1Mbps upload speed.  A direct connection is preferred, but a wireless connection will work as well. 

If you are using wireless, ensure that your current speeds meet the suggested internet connection speeds by conducting a quick speed test.

Hardware
A tablet pad and stylus are very useful for working together on the Zoom whiteboard. The Wacom Intuous pen tablet works well, as does an iPad and Apple Pencil.

While you may use your computer’s internal speakers, a headset is preferred due to the better quality of sound you will have during your session. Some models we recommend:
    •  Plantronics Audio 478 DSP
    •  Logitech F540 Headset
    •  Logitech G330 Headset
    •  Jabra UC Voice 150

Other Tips
    •  Reboot your computer before your session.
   • Close all applications on your computer that you are not going to be using in your session. It is especially important to close chat, music and video steaming, and social media.
    • Ensure that other people with whom you share your internet connection are not streaming music, movies, or online games during your session. This will allow the maximum bandwidth during this time.