The Microsoft Educator Community protects data, champions privacy and is compliant with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), a European privacy law.

If you’d like to view or delete your Microsoft Educator Community data, then please sign in to your account and go to the My Profile page. You can click on “View Account Data” to see all data that the site collects about you. Clicking on “Delete Account” will guide you through permanently removing your data from the site.

Other Microsoft privacy information can be found here.

How does the "View Account Data" option work?

Once the educator clicks on the option “View Account Data” as shown in snapshot and provides the confirmation. The Microsoft Educator Community account data gets downloaded in the zip folder. The data downloaded includes the educator profile and assets details. 

What will happen to my Data after I successfully complete “Delete Account” button functionality?

Once the educator clicks on the option “Delete Account” as shown in snapshot and provides the confirmation. 

 

The educator account gets deleted and the below notification appears at the end. “Delete Account” button permanently deletes the educator account data also which cannot be recovered. 

Is my data completely deleted once I use “Delete Account” functionality?

All the content you provided to the Microsoft Educator community will be deleted, however if you are using a Microsoft account to sign-in, some additional data may be associated with that account.

You can visit here to review and delete your account activity history.

Where do promo codes get entered?

Once you have signed in to your account:
• Click or tap your profile picture
• Select ‘Promotions’
• Enter the code you have been given and click Submit

It asks for my Skype ID – What is that?

If you have a Skype account, you would have created your Skype ID when you created your account.
To check, log into Skype.com with the email address you created the account with and check your ID.
Or create your Skype account in a few simple steps here.

How do I use Microsoft Products? I'm looking for a guide for both teachers and students

Click here to find a step by step guide for daily questions on how to use Microsoft products in teaching and learning: Create a Class Notebook in OneNote, Open Learning Tools for OneNote and more.

How do I access my drafted content?

You started to create content but haven’t finished it yet? You can always pick up where you left off by accessing your drafted content. 

Click here to access the Content section of your profile. Here you’ll find all your content: Published, Draft, In Review, Expired, and Archived. Feel free to use the filtering tool to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. You can also access this via the drop-down menu you’ll see when you click on your profile area in the top right- select ‘My Content’.

How do I create a Lesson Plan, Video Tutorial, Skype Lesson or Virtual Field Trip?

• Navigate to your 'My Content' page.
• Scroll down and select the purple “Create” button.
• Select which type of content you want to create. 
• On the 'Create Content' page you can enter in all of the information about the content you are creating. Remember to add in as much information as possible as all content is reviewed for quality. 
o Here you can add supporting resources for your content like PowerPoint, Video Files, and Images.
o You can even embed video from the internet like a YouTube video.
o Remember the more info the better!
o You can always “Save as a Draft” and finish later.
• Once you’re done with the basic information of your content, click 'Save as a Draft' and then select Enhance Content.
o On this page you can select 'Add Module' at the top of the page to utilize enhanced content features such as videos, text modules, etc. 
o You can also add in additional colors, change font sizes, and add in any additional information you would like.
o Once your content is done click 'Save' to secure your changes.
o Click 'Edit Details' to return to the page where you can Publish your content.
o Note that Skype content types (Skype Lessons, Virtual Field Trips, and Skype Collaborations) need to be submitted for review before they are published by a site administrator. You will not be able to publish these story types yourself.

• All content submitted is reviewed by a site administrator and will be reviewed within 5 working days. If you require content to be published sooner, please contact the Skype in the Classroom team at sitconlinehelp@outlook.com including the URL of your content.

• Please view the full guide for creating Skype activities here

I want to connect with someone in a specific country or who speaks a certain language

When searching for a lesson or teacher, you can use the 'FILTER' button to search by country, language and age of students. You can customize your search to suit your needs.

I registered for a session, now what?

After requesting a session, the host of the session will be notified by email they need to either confirm or decline your request. Please allow our hosts 3 business days to respond to your request.

A host never responded to my request for a session.

If a host has not responded to your request, you can go to your Registration Dashboard and send them a reminder email. Click ‘Sessions I am attending’ and select ‘Pending’ from the drop down options on the right. A button will appear to “Send Reminder Email” in case the request is not responded. By clicking this button, an email will be send to the host to remind them to respond to your request. 

If you have not heard from the session host after sending a reminder email, feel free to create support ticket using url MEC Support, and our Support Team can contact the session host.

A host approved my session, now what?

Once a host approves your requested session, we will share their contact details with you so you can reach out to them to get everything set up. They also have access to your contact information, so they may reach out to you directly. We recommend you connect in plenty of time before the scheduled call. If this is your first Skype call or you’re using new equipment, we recommend a test call beforehand.

How do I approve or decline session requests?

Hosts can approve or decline all request sent to them through their Registration Dashboard. From here you can use the drop down to see your Pending sessions. We know that you are busy, but we do ask that you try to respond to requests within 3 business days to ensure teachers can effectively plan their student’s time in advance. 

How can I see what sessions I’ve registered for?

On your Registration Dashboard you use the drop down to see your Upcoming Confirmed sessions. For all Pending and Upcoming Confirmed sessions, you can click Cancel Session to notify the host you are unable to attend a confirmed session. We know your schedules are busy but we’d ask that you try to give at least 3 days’ notice to allow the host to effectively manage their time and schedules.

How do I edit my availability?

You can edit your availability from the Skype in the Classroom section of your 'Edit profile' page. Select the date you want to edit and the times of the day you’re available for Skype sessions. When an item is green this means you are available at that day/time. Gray indicates that you do not have availability specified on a given day/time, and dates that are marked with an X indicate that you are not available. If you are going to be unavailable for a while, please choose the 'Away option from the 4 availability settings above the calendar. 
For more information on how to set your availability click here.

How do I utilize Skype?

We always recommend testing out your computer prior to participating in or hosting a Virtual Field Trip or Skype Lesson. Make sure your internet connection, camera, and microphone are all in working order.
Our Skype Guide Lessons are a great resource to demonstrate how Skype can be integrated into your curriculum. You can also take the Introduction to Skype in the Classroom course, which introduces the program overall. 
Need a little more help?  Check out the Skype website for additional support.

I’m looking for a guest speaker with a tight deadline in mind.

There are thousands of teachers and lessons on the site already. The best way to get the response you are looking for is to make your search as specific as possible; i.e. do you know the subject? Age group? 
The more granular you can get the better you will be able to find the right guest speaker to meet your needs. In addition, while we know that all our guest speakers are eager and excited to meet with you, please keep in mind they are doing this on a volunteer basis and may take a day or two respond.

How can I become a guest speaker?

Guest Speakers are experts in their field- from scientists, marine biologists, authors, artists, engineers… the list is endless! Note that teachers are not expected to be Guest Speakers to host Skype activities. Becoming a Guest Speaker is easy- simply go to the Skype in the Classroom section of your ‘Edit Profile’ page and then select the ‘I am requesting to be a Guest Speaker’ check box, and fill out the Guest Speaker area of expertise. Ensure your bio and essential information is completed, and you’ve added a profile picture, then go to the bottom of the page to save your changes. Your request will be reviewed by a site administrator within 5 working days. Remember only users with filled out profiles will be approved to be a Guest Speaker, so tell us about yourself and your expertise.
Please view full guide here - https://education.microsoft.com/applygs 

How do I get my Skype Miles? or Why didn't I get my Skype Miles?

You can earn virtual Skype Miles by participating in Skype Sessions with others on the Microsoft Educator Community. To ensure that your Skype Miles are added to your profile, be sure to take the following steps:
- Enable the Microsoft Educator Community to use your location to track Skype miles on your Edit Profile page. This checkbox must be enabled so we can track where you are in the world and calculate the distance between you and the people you Skype with! 

- For Skype Miles to be added to your profile, the session must be requested and confirmed by the session host in the on-site Registration dashboard.

Learn more about Skype miles here. 

How do I enter a Sway or other embed codes to my content?

When you are on the Create Content page, click on the purple Upload Sway and Embed button to expand the panel and add in your details. 
Be sure that you add the full embed code, which should begin with <iframe. If the full embed code is not added to this module, the system will not be able to recognize your Sway to award you badges. Please remember to set your Sway to be publicly visible or it will not be displayed

What are the different ways that I can earn points on MEC?

You can earn points for each course successfully completed and for a variety of other activities as well. Visit the Badges and Points page to find out all the ways you can earn badges and points on the site.

What do I need to do to earn badges and points for attending in-person training sessions?

When attending in-person training sessions, your Trainer is expected to provide a Promotion Code to all attendees which can be redeemed on the Educator Community. 
To redeem your promotion code, go to the Promotions page and enter the code. If the training event is associated with a badge or points, these will be added to your profile to award you for completing the training.  

How do I share items on Facebook and Twitter so that I can earn the associated badges?

Unfortunately, you will not be able to earn the social sharing badges by simply sharing a link to your social network site as we cannot track these shares.
To ensure you get credit for social shares, be sure to use the social sharing icon underneath the content header on the page. 

How do I add a discussion?

Speak up! This educator community is built on the idea of sharing and learning from each other.
•Start on the Join the Discussion page
• Using the “Add Discussion” button you can select the country you want to add your discussion in.
• Fill the discussion form and even add supporting resources for the discussion
• Click “Publish” and you’re off!

How do I use Microsoft Products? I'm looking for a guide for both teachers and students.

Click here to find a step by step guide for daily questions on how to use Microsoft products in teaching and learning: Create a Class Notebook in OneNote, Open Learning Tools for OneNote and more.

What is the eligibility and how can one be part of Microsoft Innovative Educator Fellow Program?

It is a program that exists only in some countries and not all. It is up to the local team to decide if they want to run it or not. If educator is already an MIE Expert, they should contact their local Teacher Engagement manager to find out more. (If they are a MIE Expert they should know who their Teacher Engagement manager is)

How to become a MIE Expert?

Please go to the link https://education.microsoft.com/microsoft-innovative-educator-programs/mie-expert to get all information required to become an MIE.

What is the last date for applying for MIE Expert program?

To get included in August announcement, last date of applying is July 15.If educator is in the US, this is the final deadline for each Financial Year.Other parts of the world take them in throughout the year(they just won’t be in the official announcement).

How can an educator receive Trainer Academy badge and access to the Trainer Dashboard?

It can be earned in one of 2 ways: 

1) An educator completes the online learning path
2) An educator attends a face-to-face MIE Trainer academy and receives the promo code (which then marks the online Trainer Academy as being complete and awards the badge and points.

Once they have earned their Trainer Academy Badge, they can start recording face to face trainings in the dashboard.Once they have recorded 100 educators trained between July 1 and June 30th they will earn the Trainer badge (these can be across multiple trainings).Once they have recorded 400 educators trained between July 1 and June 30th, they earn the Master Trainer Badge.

How the section “Recommended for you” works and what type of contents are visible in this section?

The “Recommended for you” section gives recommendations based on type of content searched, viewed or clicked by the educator while navigating on the Microsoft Educator Community website. In this section different content types like lesson, resource, course, webinar etc.recommended for the educator are visible.

I want to create an account.

We’re glad you want to join us! The Microsoft Educator Community was designed to be a free online community of millions of educators and educational partners around the world coming to together to collaborate, learn and share with the help of Microsoft technology. 

Creating an account is easy! Follow this link to get started creating your Microsoft Educator Community account. 

Can I invite others?

Yes! Please do share with your colleagues – the more people join, the better the community will be for everybody! Send your colleagues this link education.microsoft.com  

I don't have a Microsoft Account

With the new Educator Community, we offer the option to log in with your Office 365 and Microsoft account – so you have options. You can still browse the site without an account but to participate in Skype sessions or to create content you must have a registered account through any of the log in options listed above.

I don't have a Skype account

Don’t worry, it is not required until you are ready to connect with one of our experts or educators directly. In order to join Skype Lessons, Virtual Field Trips, Mystery Skype or Guest Speaking Sessions you’ll need to set up a Skype account. We also recommend that you include your Skype account ID in your profile so others can easily connect with you.  You can create a Skype account at www.skype.com. 
Want to sign up for Skype with your school email? Click here

Can I use my personal Skype account?

Yes, you can join with whichever Skype account you want based on your personal preference. 

Where is MEC’s social account sign in option and what happened to the account created previously via social account authentication mode?

Microsoft Educator Community no longer supports sign in/registration using social account authentication mode. During April and May month, notification was send to the users to migrate their social account into currently supported sign in option. All the accounts created previously via social account authentication mode are deleted permanently and cannot be recovered.

Editing your Profile

You took the first step and registered for the Microsoft Educator Community. Congrats! Now you’re ready to enhance your profile.

You can edit your profile by following this link to your edit profile page. 

Adding a profile picture

You can add or edit your profile picture or avatar from your edit profile page. Click here to get started.

Note: there is a recommended size of 360x360px

What fields in my profile is visible to others?

On your Edit Profile page you can see your Profile Status under Basic Information. You can edit this to Public, Private, or Authenticated only. 

Public profiles have several fields that are visible to all other users. You can identify these fields because they are marked with an eye icon next to them.

The Authenticated Users Only designation means that only users with registered Microsoft
Educator Community accounts can view your public profile. To see what information is included in your Public profile refer to the eye icon next to these fields. 

Why does it ask for my social media details?

Under the Social Summary tab in your profile, you can provide links to your Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram, and blog. This is to allow other users to connect with you on your preferred platform.

It asks for my Skype ID – What is that?

If you have a Skype account, you would have created your Skype ID when you created your account.

To check, log into Skype.com with the email address you created the account with and check your ID.

Or create your Skype account in a few simple steps here.

What is Mystery Skype?

Mystery Skype is an educational game, invented by teachers, played by two classrooms on Skype. The aim of the game is to guess the location of the other classroom by asking each other questions.

It's suitable for all age groups and can be used to teach subjects like geography, history, languages, mathematics and science.

Check our Mystery Skype OneNote to see all the wonderful things you and your class can do together to play Mystery Skype and organize your session.

How to make private MEC profile as public?

Go to Edit Profile->Skype in the Classroom ->Availability Preference.And set the preference to any option other than "Away" and this should fix your issue.

Where do I find lessons?

All of our different lesson can be found here. This includes Lesson Plans, Skype Lessons, Virtual Field Trips, and Video Tutorials. 

What is a Lesson Plan?

Do you have a lesson that really inspires and gets children thinking? Share it with other educators as a lesson plan! Check out this great Lesson Plan.

What is a Skype Lesson?

You can take your students around the world without ever leaving the classroom, collaborate with another class on a specific project you are working on, or hear from an expert Guest Speaker by utilizing Skype Lessons. Check out this great Skype Lesson.

What is a Virtual Field Trip?

This is a great option to meet experts ‘out in the field’ such as museum tour guides, explorers, marine biologists, zoologists, and scientists to educate your classroom and take them on virtual adventure. Check out this great Virtual Field Trip. 

What is a Video Tutorial?

Video Tutorials are a great way for educators to share their expertise with each other on topics like leveraging technology in the classroom or new and exciting teaching methods.  Check out this great Video Tutorial. 

How do I register for a lesson?

For tips on how to register for any of our Skype Sessions please click here. 

How is a Skype Lesson different than a Lesson Plan?

Great question! Skype Lessons are taught in real time using Skype to teach the lesson. Specific times are scheduled between guest speakers and classes so the class is getting an incredibly unique and valuable educational experience with an expert.

Lessons Plan are available offline at any time. Educators have created these Lesson Plans for you to access at your convenience. This can be anything from a video to a PowerPoint you can access when you need it. 

What does it mean to host a Virtual Field Trip?

Hosting Virtual Field Trips is a great way to show your unique expertise and help guide a class through an adventure without leaving their seats! To host a Virtual Field Trip you must be an approved guest speaker. 

To get started visit the Find a Lesson page here. The purple ‘Create’ button on the right hand side will allow you start creating your Virtual Field Trip. Make sure to include all of the required information and if this Virtual Field Trip has an expiration date. 

How do I create a Lesson Plan, Video Tutorial, Skype Lesson, or Virtual Field Trip?

• Navigate to the Find a Lesson page.
• Scroll down and select the purple “Create” button.
• Select which type of content you want to create. 
• You can also create content from the Content section of your profile. 
• On the Create Content page you can enter in all of the information about the content you are creating. Remember to add in as much information as possible as all content is reviewed for quality. 
o Here you can add supporting resources for your content like PowerPoint, Video Files, and Images.
o You can even embed video from the internet like a YouTube video.
o Remember the more info the better!
• You can always “Save as a Draft” and finish later.
• Once you’re done with the basic information of your content Save as a Draft and then select Enhance Content.
• On this page you can select Add Module at the top of the page to utilized enhanced content features such as videos, resources, and Sway & Mix embedding. 
• You can also add in additional colors, change font sizes, and add in any additional information you would like.
• Once your content is done click Save to secure your changes.
• Click Edit Details to return to the page where you can Submit for Review at the bottom of the page. 
• All content submitted is reviewed by a site administrator and will be reviewed within 72 hours. 

How do I add a discussion?

Speak up! This educator community is built on the idea of sharing and learning from each other.

• Start on the Join the Discussion page
• Using the “Add Discussion” button you can select the country you want to add your discussion in.
• Fill the discussion form and even add supporting resources for the discussion
• Click “Publish” and you’re off!

How do I add a community?

If you would like to add a new community, click the orange Help button at the bottom of this page and submit a help desk request to let us know what the new community should be called.

How do I access my drafted content?

You started to create content but haven’t finished it yet? You can always pick up where you left off by accessing your drafted content. 

Click here to access the Content section of your profile. Here you’ll find all your content: Published, Draft, In Review, Expired, and Archived. Feel free to use the filtering tool to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

How do I follow another educator?

If you want to follow another educator you can click the star next to their name. 

I requested to follow some other users - how do I see who I have followed?

All of your Connections can be found here. Here you can filter by people you are following, users who are following you, new requests to follow you, and your pending requests to follow other users. 

I'm not getting the registrations and responses that I wanted for my Skype Lesson or Virtual Field Trip.

Microsoft Educator Community has been set up to allow other teachers to find you, but that doesn't mean that you can't go to find them. In the past teachers have run searches for similar projects on the site, or spread the word of their own projects through blogs, twitter and forums to help improve traffic.

How can I get more people to look at my Lesson Plan, Video Tutorial, Skype Lesson, or Virtual Field Trip?

Teachers have found that advertising their projects outside of the Microsoft Educator Community has helped to bring in more interested and engaged teachers.

My educational authority doesn't support the IT required; webcams/ smartboards/ projectors.

Getting the permission and the technology required to bring Microsoft into your classroom can sometimes be a difficult act. We really respect and appreciate our teachers pushing through barriers to make sure that their students get to enjoy Microsoft Education too. If you are having trouble convincing an educational authority to allow you access, show them some of our video clips, our testimonials and case studies. Alternatively, they can send any queries through the orange Help button at the bottom of this page. 

I'm not sure where to find teachers who would be interested in joining my Skype lesson, or connecting with me on topics I am interested in.

It’s easy! You can find educators and classrooms across the globe here. Here you have the ability to filter by subject, age group, language and a variety of other options that will help you find the right people and classrooms who would be interested connecting with you on the topics you have selected. 

I'm looking for a guest speaker with a tight deadline in mind.

There are thousands of teachers and lessons on the site already. The best way to get the response you are looking for is to make your search as specific as possible; i.e. do you know the subject? Age group? 

The more granular you can get the better you will be able to find the right guest speaker to meet your needs. In addition, while we know that all our guest speakers are eager and excited to meet with you, please keep in mind they are doing this on a volunteer basis and may take a day or two respond. 

I want to connect with someone in a specific country or who speaks a certain language.

When searching for a lesson or teacher, you can select a country, language and age of students to search from. You can customize your search to suit your needs.

I've taken part in an amazing learning experience. How can I share it with others?

Excellent news! We love hearing how people are using the Microsoft Educator Community, and the adventures they are taking part in. If you have created videos, blog posts or photographs we would really enjoy seeing them and sharing them with the rest of our followers. You can send links to us through twitter (@microsoft_EDU and @Skypeclassroom) or Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/microsoftineducation and https://www.facebook.com/skypeintheclassroom). In addition, if you have Skype specific photos or stories to share, many of our users post with #mysteryskype and #skype2learn. 

What does it mean to be a guest speaker?

Guest speakers are experts in their field and offer lessons to classes using their expert knowledge. An example could be a book author talking to a class about writing books, or a Computer Programmer talking to a class about coding.

How can I become a guest speaker?

We’re so glad you want to be a guest speaker! You’ll need to send us a request to be one before you get started. Click here to go to the Skype in the Classroom section of your Edit Profile page and then select the ‘I am requesting to be a Guest Speaker’ check box, go to the bottom of the page to save your changes. Your request will be reviewed by a site administrator. Remember only users with filled out profiles will be approved to be a guest speaker, so tell us about yourself and your expertise. 

How can my organization become a partner?

We’re always looking for great organizations who are looking to partner with the Microsoft Educator Community. This is a great way for educators around the world to learn about your organization and for you to help give students a new and exciting way to learn. 

For more information, please contact the Skype in the Classroom support team. 

Need more help?

Please submit any issues here.

How do I schedule a Guest Speaking Session?

On each Guest Speaker’s profile there is a button under their profile picture to “Request a Guest Speaking Session.” Clicking this button will either bring up a calendar for you to schedule a session with the host based on their availability or prompt you to send them a custom message if the host chooses not to share their availability. Click here to search for guest speakers!

How do I schedule a Mystery Skype?

On each user’s profile who is participating in Mystery Skype there is a button under their picture to “Request a Mystery Skype.” Clicking that button will either bring up a calendar for you to schedule a session with the host based on their availability or prompt you to send them a custom message if the host chooses not to share their availability. To search for other classrooms to play Mystery Skype with, go to:  
https://education.microsoft.com/skype-in-the-classroom/mystery-skype or click here.

How do I register for Skype Lesson?

On each Skype Lesson & Virtual Field Trip there is a purple button that allows you to register and schedule a time with that host for a session. Clicking that button will either bring up a calendar for you to schedule a session with the host based on their availability or prompt you to send them a custom message if the host chooses not to share their availability. Looking for a Skype Lesson that can enhance your classroom’s learning experience? Check out our Top Teacher Picks and Skype in the Classroom Highlights to find Skype Lesson favorites and ideas to help get you started. 

How do I register for a Virtual Field Trip?

On each Skype Lesson & Virtual Field Trip there is a purple button that allows you to register and schedule a time with that host for a session. Clicking that button will either bring up a calendar for you to schedule a session with the host based on their availability or prompt you to send them a custom message if the host chooses not to share their availability.

I registered for a session, now what?

After requesting a session, the host of the session will be notified by email they need to either confirm or decline your request. Please allow our hosts sometime to respond to your request.

A host never responded to my request for a session.

If a host has not responded to your request, you can go to your Registration Dashboard and send them a reminder email. Click ‘Sessions I am attending’ and select ‘Pending’ from the drop down options on the right. A button will appear to “Send Reminder Email” in case the request is not responded. By clicking this button, an email will be send to the host to remind them to respond to your request. 

If you have not heard from the session host after sending a reminder email, feel free to create support ticket using url MEC Support, and our Support Team can contact the session host.

A host approved my session, now what?

Once a host approves your requested session, we will share their contact details with you so you can reach out to them to get everything set up. They also have access to your contact information, so they may reach out to you directly. We recommend you connect in plenty of time before the scheduled call. If this is your first Skype call or you’re using new equipment, we recommend a test call beforehand. 

A host declined my session.

If the host of a session has declined your request they may reach out directly to you via the email address associated with your account. From there the host may direct you back to their registration page to select a new time or may work with you via email to schedule a different time.

How can I see what sessions I’ve registered for?

On your Registration Dashboard you use the dropdown to see your Upcoming Confirmed sessions. For all Pending and Upcoming Confirmed sessions, you can click Cancel Session to notify the host you are unable to attend a confirmed session. We know your schedules are busy but we’d ask that you try to give at least 3 days’ notice to allow the host to effectively manage their time and schedules. 

How do I edit my availability?

You can edit your availability from the Skype in the Classroom section of your edit profile page. Select the date you want to edit and the times of the day you’re available for Skype sessions. You can also add times to your calendar that you are Away and unavailable for Skype sessions.

For more information on how to set your availability click here.

How do I utilize Skype?

We always recommend testing out your computer prior to participating in or hosting a Virtual Field Trip or Skype Lesson. Make sure your internet connection, camera, and microphone are all in working order.

Our Skype Guide Lessons are a great resource to demonstrate how Skype can be integrated into your curriculum.

Need a little more help?  Check out the Skype website for additional support.

Can I use Skype for Business?

It is possible to use Skype for Business for your Skype Sessions. Just follow these steps! 

-Make it clear to the lesson host prior to the session and ensure you carry out a test call.
-The other user can send you a request from ‘consumer’ Skype to your Skype for Business using your email- you need to look out for it in the ‘New’ tab – it’s not always obvious! 
-If adding a lesson host on consumer Skype for Skype for Business, search for their Skype ID, and select the ‘Skype Directory’ tab as shown below.
-Most of our lesson hosts use consumer Skype, but some are open to using Skype for Business. 
-As an alternative, you could also set up a Skype for Business meeting and send them the link to join. That way (if they haven’t used Skype for Business before, they’d need to download a browser plug in- same as you’d do when joining an online webinar).
-Note that sometimes the other person appears offline when they are not, only when you open their profile does it then sync and show their online status.

What is the pre-requisite to record Skype session and get skype miles?

Skype Miles can be earned when Skype interactions are recorded on the Microsoft Educator Community. To ensure your Skype sessions are being tracked, make sure that you are doing the following: 

a) Share your location. To turn on your location, go to your Edit Profile page, open the Location panel, and check the box to Share Your Location. This is how we are able use your location to calculate your Skype Miles Traveled.
b) Schedule your Skype Sessions through the Educator Community by Registering for Live Lessons or Virtual Field Trips. You can also Request a Mystery Skype or Guest Speaking Sessions on another user's profile. The session must be requested and confirm by the host for you to receive your miles.
c) If your location is set and your Skype session was approved through the Educator Community, please let the MEC support team know so that verify the same in MEC system.

Need more help?

Please submit any issues here.

How do I approve or decline session requests?

Hosts can approve or decline all request sent to them through their Registration Dashboard. From here you can use the dropdown to see your Pending sessions. We know that you are busy, but we do ask that you try to respond as soon as possible to ensure teachers can effectively plan their student’s time in advance.  

How can I see what upcoming sessions I’m hosting?

On your Registration Dashboard you use the dropdown to see your Upcoming Confirmed sessions. Click the View Details button to see information about the attendees for that upcoming session.

You can also access your Registration Dashboard by clicking on your profile picture to access the navigation dropdown.  

I’ve already approved a session but I need to cancel. How do I do that?

On your Registration Dashboard you use the dropdown to see your Upcoming Confirmed sessions. Click on View Details to access your session details. From the detail view, you can Cancel the session and add a message to the attendee explaining the reason for the cancellation.

We would also encourage you to reach out via email to the attendee to try and schedule a new time that works well for both you. You can find the user’s email address in the Skype registration emails or by clicking View Details next to the session within your Registration Dashboard.

A user has proposed a new time for a session that is outside of my availability that doesn’t work for me. What do I do?

Using the Registration Dashboard, click on View Details.  The user’s email address is listed in the Attendee List for you to reach out to them directly via email to let them know the time doesn’t work for you. 

Once you and the attendee have decided on a new date and time for the session go to your Registration Dashboard and click View Details again. On the Session Detail page, select ‘Change Date’ under the Date Requested to update the new date and time.

If you do not want to allow users to propose times that are outside of your set availability, you may want to check your Availability Settings in the Skype in the Classroom section of your edit profile page.

How do I edit my availability?

You can edit your availability from the Skype in the Classroom section of your edit profile page. Select the date you want to edit and the times of the day you’re available for Skype sessions. When an item is green this means you are available at that day/time. Gray indicates that you do not have availability specified on a given day/time, and dates that are marked with an X indicate that you are not available. 

For more information on how to set your availability click here. 

How do I edit my availability setting?

We understand that not all hosts have the same flexibility and scheduling preferences, which is why we give you the option to choose from four availability settings. Your availability setting can be updated from the Skype in the Classroom section of your edit profile page and lets us know how you prefer to be contacted for Skype sessions.

There are 4 availability settings you can choose from:

Only available at the times I’ve set - I want to set my availability and only allow members to contact for the times specified as available.

My availability is flexible – Availability can be set, but members will also be able to propose times outside of my specified availability.

Do not display my availability – I choose not to set availability on the website. Allow members to send me a message and I will follow up via email or Skype to arrange the details.

Away -  I’m going to be unavailable for a period of time. I will update when I return to the community.

I’m a Guest Speaker, but I don’t want users to request sessions from my profile. What should I do?

From your Edit Profile page, you can remove the Request a Guest Speaking Session button from your profile by unselecting the box that says “Allow guest speaker requests from my profile. By unselecting the field, the Guest Speaker Request button will be removed from your profile and replaced with a link for user’s to view your Guest Speaker Content.

How do I update my availability to “Away”?

If you plan to be away from the community for a period of time and need to update your availability to Away, there are two options on your Edit Profile page to help you do so.

In the My Availability section, you can set specific dates and times that you will be unavailable for Skype sessions. This option is helpful if you are planning to be away for specific days or a short period of time.



If you plan to be Away from the community for a longer period of time such as summer vacation, you can update your Availability Preference to Away. By selecting this option, your profile will not be searchable and educators will not be able to request Skype sessions with you. Your profile will remain in “Away” status until you return to your Edit Profile page and update your Availability preference.

How do I utilize Skype?

We always recommend testing out your computer prior to participating in or hosting a Virtual Field Trip or Skype Lesson. Make sure your internet connection, camera, and microphone are all in working order.

Need a little more help? Check out the Skype website for additional support.

Can I use Skype for Business?

It is possible to use Skype for Business for your Skype Sessions. Just follow these steps! 

- Make it clear to the lesson host prior to the session and ensure you carry out a test call
- The other user can send you a request from ‘consumer’ Skype to your Skype for Business using your email- you need to look out for it in the ‘New’ tab – it’s not always obvious! 
- If adding a lesson host on consumer Skype for Skype for Business, search for their Skype ID, and select the ‘Skype Directory’ tab as shown below
- Most of our lesson hosts use consumer Skype, but some are open to using Skype for Business 
- As an alternative, you could also set up a Skype for Business meeting and send them the link to join. That way (if they haven’t used Skype for Business before, they’d need to download a browser plug in- same as you’d do when joining an online webinar)
- Note that sometimes the other person appears offline when they are not, only when you open their profile does it then sync and show their online status

Need more help?

Please submit any issues here.

What is the Training Dashboard?

The Training Dashboard is the hub for MIE Trainers to track the face to face and Skype trainings they have delivered.  Anyone who has successfully completed a face-to-face MIE Trainer Academy or the online MIE Trainer academy has access to this dashboard.

How do I get to the training dashboard?

For those with access to the Training Dashboard you can access the dashboard by clicking here. 

How do I create a new training?

To add a new Training Event in the Training Dashboard you’ll first need to navigate to the Training Dashboard. 

• Click ‘Create New’ in the upper right 
• Select a training topic and complete the required fields for your Training Event
• If your training topic is not listed in the Topic dropdown, select an ‘Other’ training duration based on the length of your training session 
• Enter the estimated number of attendees in ‘Number of Attendees’ field. You will be able to edit the number by visiting the Training Dashboard at a later date 
• Click ‘Save’

I’ve attended a training, now what?

For more help on how to use the Training Dashboard click here to download the training guide. 

What is the purpose of a promo code?

Promo codes are given to participants who attend your training.  When they enter the code given, they will earn the appropriate points and potentially a badge on the Educator Community. For example, if you deliver a 6-hour MIE Teacher Academy, the participants who enter the promo code you give them will earn their MIE badge.

If attendees don’t use a promo code will they not be counted towards my training?

Not at all.  The number that matters for the purpose of your training number, is the number you enter in the ‘Number of Attendees” field.  The number you record in that field is what will count towards your overall training numbers.

Where do promo codes get entered?

Once you have signed in to your account:

• Click or tap your profile picture
• Select ‘Promotions’
• Enter the code you have been given and click Submit

What is the eligibility and how can one be part of Microsoft Innovative Educator Fellow Program?

It is a program that exists only in some countries and not all. It is up to the local team to decide if they want to run it or not. If educator is already an MIE Expert, they should contact their local Teacher Engagement manager to find out more. (If they are a MIE Expert they should know who their Teacher Engagement manager is)

How can an educator receive Trainer Academy badge and access to the Trainer Dashboard?

It can be earned in one of 2 ways: 

1) An educator completes the online learning path
2) An educator attends a face-to-face MIE Trainer academy and receives the promo code (which then marks the online Trainer Academy as being complete and awards the badge and points.

Once they have earned their Trainer Academy Badge, they can start recording face to face trainings in the dashboard.Once they have recorded 100 educators trained between July 1 and June 30th they will earn the Trainer badge (these can be across multiple trainings).Once they have recorded 400 educators trained between July 1 and June 30th, they earn the Master Trainer Badge.

What is the last date for applying for MIE Expert program?

To get included in August announcement, last date of applying is July 15.If educator is in the US, this is the final deadline for each Financial Year.Other parts of the world take them in throughout the year(they just won’t be in the official announcement).

How to become a MIE Expert?

Please go to the link https://education.microsoft.com/microsoft-innovative-educator-programs/mie-expert to get all information required to become an MIE.

If I complete a course on the MEC Preview site, will I see that course in my transcript file on MEC portal?

Yes, all courses will be recorded. To access the transcript, on MEC, make sure you’re signed in, then click on your avatar to activate the menu. Under Profile, select Achievements, then click on the Training Transcript link. You can also access your Training Transcript here.

If I complete a course on the MEC Preview site, will I see the points I’ve earned in the MEC portal?

In the My Profile page, you will see all the points you have earned, including from MEC preview courses. However, the points from MEC preview courses are not currently visible in the Point Summary Dashboard. This is a known issue with the preview that is being addressed.

Are badges/certificates awarded on MEC Preview also awarded on MEC?

Yes, the badges/certificates awarded on the MEC Preview site will be visible in your Achievements page on MEC.

Is the course progress on MEC Preview also tracked on MEC?

Any in-progress work in the MEC Preview site will not currently be visible on MEC. However, your points awarded, and badges received will be visible. This is a known issue with the preview that is being addressed.