How To Prepare for a Virtual Author Visit

• Make sure you have access to multiple copies of most of the author's works.
• Read and discuss the author's works well in advance of the virtual visit.
• Collect questions for the author ahead of time.
• Discuss netiquette and discussion procedures with the students.
• Check and double check that all equipment and necessary software is working.
• Use a projector to broadcast the computer screen or webcam so all students can see the communication.
• If connecting via e-mail, bulletin board, or virtual chat, be sure students read all posts before asking follow-up questions.
• Monitor the time and allow students to ask impromptu questions if there is enough time. 

Resource: Johnson, D. (2009). The Joys of Children's Literature. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Co., Boston, MA.