Wearing microphones

Guidance on using microphones in teaching rooms

  • Microphones should always be worn when available, regardless of any perceived need.
  • This includes all of those who present, including guest lecturers and students, and contributions from members of the audience.
  • Speaking 'loudly & clearly' is not a substitute for the microphone.
  • All lecture rooms are equipped with at least one microphone which is maintained by IS staff and locally-based support staff.
  • Where there is a single microphone, it should be passed to anyone who wishes to contribute (e.g. if an audience member wishes to ask a question).
  • Catchbox microphones (in padded boxes), which can be thrown/passed safely in a large spaces, are available in some spaces.
  • Use of the microphone is required if lecture recording is taking place.

How to use lapel/handheld microphones

Most rooms come equipped with at least one wireless lapel microphone. Larger spaces will have multiple microphones, for example two lapel microphones and one handheld microphone. 

To turn the microphones on simply lift them out the cradle and they will turn on automatically. Both types of microphone come with a status light - yellow indicates the microphone is muted and green indicates the microphone is live. The mute switch for the lapel microphone is located on the top of the pack and the switch for the handheld is located on the front. Slide the button left and right on the lapel, or up and down on the handheld. 

If using the lapel microphone, place the unit in your pocket or attach to your waist/belt using the clip on the back. Position the microphone roughly six to eight inches from your mouth and attach it to your clothing using the clip. 

The microphones work independently of the volume control found on the button or touch screen panel. Microphone levels have been set by technicians for optimum level based on the room size and users are unable alter this. When you are finished with the microphone, please ensure it is placed correctly back in the cradle, so the charging slot status lights up. 

The microphones must be used at all times to be heard in the room, in lecture recordings and in classes using hybrid teaching methods. Please note University of Edinburgh policy requires microphones to be worn regardless of any perceived need. 

How to use catchbox microphones

The catchbox is a microphone that promotes collaborative learning by engaging audience members in the discussion. To turn on, simply lift the catch box from the charging plate and wait a moment. The catchbox microphone is robust and can be passed to audience members in the room, which enables them to be heard both in the teaching space and on the lecture recording. When finished with the catchbox, place back on the wireless charging plate.

 

Photograph showing wireless microphones in a lecture room
Lapel and handheld microphones
A photograph of a catch box microphone in a lecture room
A catchbox microphone

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