Zoom is a web-based, teleconferencing tool that MSHE facilitates to deliver its remote and blended-learning courses. This post describes the basic process that you and your students will follow to conduct a Zoom session. It will also include tips and tricks that participants can use to reduce interruption or confusion. The goal is for all course participants to thrive in a comfortable and intuitive virtual learning environment.
Chris Neary will set up one link for use in all virtual class sessions
He will place this link on the Syllabus page and in every weekly session page that corresponds to the Zoom-delivered lesson.
Ensure you and your students have the appropriate technical capabilities to participate in the Zoom session
-
Reliable Internet/WiFi connection
-
Internet/WiFi-enabled device
-
Built-in video or portable web camera
-
Built-in microphone or portable microphone. If other microphone capabilities are unavailable, student can call in to use phone for audio.
-
Headphones/earphones (optional, but strongly encouraged to reduce room echo or control for outside interruptions i.e. dog barking, roommates, children, highway/train noise)
Open the Zoom session from the Zoom link provided
If you or the student are opening Zoom for the first time, your computer will automatically download Zoom. Allow at least five extra minutes to ensure Zoom is properly installed on your computer/device.
-
Agree to all download prompts.
-
Zoom should automatically detect your video source (built-in camera). Most laptops will take care of this for you.
-
View the prompt that requests the audio source. If you will use just your computer, click on green button that says “Join with Computer Audio.”
-
By default, you will enter a Zoom session with your microphone muted. In a classroom setting, this setup reduces noise as students log on. Unmute your microphone when you want to speak. Mute your microphone again when you listen.
Utilize some tips and tricks during the Zoom session
-
Ensure students note their first and last names on their Zoom window. This is equivalent to bringing nameplates to class. This is especially helpful for you to get to know students and for guest speakers to interact with students.
-
Ensure your students leave their video on. This is equivalent to being present. Assess this to your discretion, but a video turned off suggests the student is not engaged.
-
Zoom Breakouts: Consult with Chris Neary on how you can divide the class until small breakout groups. Small-group discussions are helpful so students gain perspectives from a few students at a time. Small groups then return to the full class to share their ideas.