To: All Students
Getting Ready for an Online Lesson via Zoom
We may all feel a little uneasy when turning on our webcam for class. Here are a few tips that will make your class more enjoyable:
Before joining your online lesson on Zoom
- Test your video input
- Test your camera and microphone before accessing the meeting room (link).
- If you feel uneasy showing your room in the background, you may try out the virtual background function (link, video).
- You can switch on the touch-up camera if needed (link).
- Learn and practice how to share your screen with annotation in Zoom.
- Test your audio input
- You may need an earphone with a built-in microphone.
- Place your microphone close to you.
- Only unmute yourself when necessary (e.g. discussions or responding to others’ questions)
It is not University policy to require students to switch on their camera and microphone. However, for some courses the teacher will require you to do so because of the nature of the learning materials and tasks. If you have any difficulties in switching on your camera and microphone at home, please contact your teacher in advance to find a workable solution.
During your online lesson
- Stay focused
- Listen actively
- Participate in discussion
- If necessary, ask your teacher to take a lesson break
Ask for help and support
- Contact ITS (central support) or CAES Communication Support Services (student-led support) for advice.
- Contact CEDARS or your academic advisor when you encounter other difficulties.
[Acknowledgement: some of the content was taken from this article.]