Joining a Virtual Parenting Group

What do I need to join a virtual group?

  • A good internet connection 
  • A private, well-lit area where you will not be disturbed 
  • Web-camera, speakers and microphone (already built into most devices)
  • The free Microsoft Teams App downloaded on your device (recommended) OR access to a supported web browser such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

Is it secure? 

  • Virtual groups are secure - you need a unique Microsoft Teams link to join a group.
  • Please do not share or forward your meeting link to anyone. 

How much does a virtual group cost? 

  • The virtual group is free, except for internet data usage.

How much internet data will I use? 

  • A 60-minute virtual group uses approximately 220–900MB data. This is the same amount of data as watching a movie on Netflix.
  • Lower-speed internet connections and less powerful devices use less data. However, this may affect the quality of the call.
  • If you can, use a Wi-Fi network to avoid using your mobile data allowance. 

Step-by-step guide 

Depending on the device you are using, the screen shots may look slightly different for you, but the instructions are the same.

Click on the Join Microsoft Teams Meeting link in the email we sent you.

Screenshot of the Microsoft Teams home page

 

If you are using a supported web browser, the meeting window will open automatically. If prompted, download the free Microsoft Teams App.

You do not have to sign up for a Microsoft account.

Just download the app, then return to your email and click on the meeting link again. 

Once prompted, click ‘Join as a guest’.

Image showing web page where you need to click the 'Join as a Team' box
 
Type in your first name and click ‘Join meeting’. 

Type in your first name in the box provided, and click Join meeting

 

This will take you to a virtual meeting room and will say ‘Someone in the meeting should let you in soon’.

 This will take you to a screen which will show your name and say ‘Someone in the meeting should let you in soon’

Once your presenter has let you into the meeting, please mute your microphone when not talking to avoid background noise.

Do this by clicking on the microphone icon on the control panel.

This will now show an icon with the microphone crossed out. To unmute, simply click this button again.

You can click on the microphone button to turn the microphone off and on

You can also turn your camera on and off by clicking and unclicking the camera icon. 

          You can click on the camera button to turn the camera off and on
 
You can see the names of people in your meeting by clicking on the icon of two people.

Click on the 'Show participants' icon to see the names of people in your meeting

You can use the chat function if you are having issues with your microphone or if you want to type a message. Click on the speech bubble to do this.

            Click on the 'Show conversation' icon, if you are having issues with your microphone or if you want to type a message
 
To end the call, hang up by pressing the red button.

To end the call, pree the 'Hang up' icon

Common technical problems

Can’t connect?

  • Check you are connected to the internet.
  • If using a computer, check you are using a supported web browser such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. You can do this by going to whatismybrowser.com.
  • If you are prompted to download the Microsoft Teams App, make sure this has been completed and installed before clicking on the meeting link again. 

Poor connection?

  • Your internet speed should be at least 500kbps (0.5Mbps) for virtual groups.
  • Check your internet speed by going to speedtest.net.
  • Turning your camera off may help connect or maintain connection.

Having issues with hearing or seeing? 

  • Check your speakers/headphones/microphone are plugged in, turned on and the volume is turned up.
  • Check your camera/webcam is plugged in and turned on.
  • If you are on a computer, check your device settings:  
    • Click on the three dots on the control panel
    • Select show device settings
    • Make sure your speaker, microphone and camera settings are correct for what you are using (see example below).

Use the 'More action" button to take you to a menu where you can check your speaker, microphone and camera settings are correct

Select 'Show device settings' to check your speaker, microphone and camera settings

 

  • If you have made setting changes and are still having problems, hang up from the meeting, close the application and re-join using the same meeting link.
  • You can use the chat function to let your presenter know you are having problems.

I need more help:

  • Some more tips and guides are available on Microsoft Teams website
  • If you are having ongoing technical difficulties, please contact us on 1300 749 869 (8am to 5pm) to book into a face-to-face group instead of a virtual group.

This information is also available as an information sheet (PDF).

Last Updated: 13/01/2022