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Cleveland Metroparks Zoo invites you to bring your group to the Zoo -- virtually! Go to places in the Zoo that you may never have seen before. Ask questions of Zoo staff and interact with other schools around Ohio and beyond. All without leaving your school!
What equipment and technology do I need to participate in a Distance Learning Program?
Participants must have access to a two-way audio-video teleconferencing system operating at 384K or faster. Currently, all programs will be conducted through IP, with the assistance of ETECH Ohio Bridging Services.
Schools are responsible for dialing into eTech Ohio Bridging Service/Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and providing all connection information; including valid IP number for connecting site. Registrations received without completed field information and IP numbers will be cancelled. Dial-up information will be provided to you in a follow-up confirmation, a week prior to the scheduled program. If you are an ISDN site, you may be able to be connected through a bridge provided by ETECH Ohio Bridging Services. Bridge connections are setup by Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.
Sites connecting with Cleveland Metroparks Zoo for the first time need to successfully complete a test call. This needs to be done within 1-2 weeks prior to your scheduled program. In addition, participants must also be able to dial into ETECH Ohio Bridging Services and are responsible for any charges they incur while making that connection.
To schedule a test call please call Cathy Ryan, (216) 661-6500 EXT. 4479.
How much do the programs cost?
At the present time, there is no charge for the distance learning programs at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. However, as mentioned previously, connecting sites are responsible for any long distance telephone fees that are incurred during a connection with the Zoo. Additionally, if a site requests a program title that is not currently listed on the schedule, there is a one-time fee for curriculum development. Costs for international conferences are expensive therefore fees are attached. To inquire, please call (216) 635-3091.
When may I register my class for a Distance Learning program with the Zoo?
Distance Learning program registrations are accepted for the Fall/Winter semester on or after September 16 and on or after January 20 for the Winter/Spring semester. However, as participation is limited to only 2-3 remote sites per program, classes usually fill within 2-3 weeks of the opening date. Registration must be completed on-line (choose a category from the distance learning main page, then click the "register now" link for the particular program).
Are program descriptions and lesson plans available that I can review prior to registration?
In addition to the program descriptions found in the distance learning pages, you can download lesson plans by clicking the program title. Please note: these documents are only available in an Adobe Acrobat format (download Adobe Reader from the Adobe website).
How do I register my class or group?
Registration must be completed on-line (choose the appropriate category from the list to view available programs and corresponding registration links).
NOTE: Due to changes in scheduling procedures and staffing, the Zoo can only accept requests with the exact dates and times listed on the schedule. SORRY, NO EXCEPTIONS!
How many students can attend the videoconference?
Because our distance learning programs are inquiry based, we ask that the class sizes be limited to 30 students to optimize the interactive time between presenter and students.
When will I know if my group is scheduled for a program?
At the time of registration, you will know whether or not you were confirmed for that program.
When will I know the technical details of the connection?
Closer to the program date, technical information and a detailed confirmation will be sent via email to the participating teacher and technology coordinator. (Please note that the connection speed of each program may vary, as it depends on the abilities of the remote sites that are participating.) If there are additional contacts that need to be copied on the confirmation email, please provide that information on the registration form under additional comments.
For ISDN calls, dial up numbers are available 15 minutes prior to the program start time, by calling the Zoo at (216) 635-3326. This number will be assigned by ETECH Ohio Bridging Services.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
If you need additional information or you need assistance in registering your group, email the Scheduling Staff at programregistration@clevelandmetroparks.com or call (216) 635-3391.
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