Teaching Tips for Zoom

Overview 

This page provides an example of student-facing guidelines that can be given to students before engaging in a synchronous (live) class session on Zoom. 

Class Sessions on Zoom 

I provide a structured environment that balances delivering content with active student participation. To make the experience engaging and safe, I have guidelines that I'm asking each of you to follow before and during class sessions on Zoom: 

1. Have fun! We're here to learn, and fun helps us do that (within reason). Your attitude about Zoom sessions will dramatically contribute to your success. I will bring my best attitude and focus every time and hope you will too. 
     
2. Please login at least one day before the first live session to make sure your computer setup works and get the necessary technical support if it doesn't. 
     
3. Arrive at the session approximately 10 - 15 minutes early if possible. This gives you time to troubleshoot any technical issues – audio, connection speed, video, your ability to use the Chat and meeting controls. It is much less hectic to log in early and verify that everything works and that you’re comfortable. You can always put “brb” (be right back) in the Chat and take care of last-minute things until class starts.  
    
4. If you have technical difficulties when logging in, try disconnecting and reconnecting to the meeting, signing out of Zoom and Canvas and then signing back in, powering down and restarting your computer. A lot of issues are resolved this way!  
    
5. If none of the above work or you get a specific error message, use google to quickly look up how to troubleshoot, download any Zoom updates, or contact someone for IT support. 
    
6. If after trying everything you are unable to connect, don't sweat it. Simply send me a quick email. Take the opportunity to spend time with family and friends -- we'll work it out later. Once the technical problem is resolved, you can watch the recorded class session, ask me or your classmates any questions, and you’ll be prepared for the next time. 
    
7. I recommend logging in from a location where distractions are minimal. This includes noise, people, other (more tempting) screens, etc. Some students make a sign that informs people around them that they are in class and unavailable. For example, "Online class in session! Please do not interrupt. Thank you!" This can go a long way with family members, roommates, and friends – thought not with pets 😊  
     
8. As tempting as it can be, it's best if you close all other browser windows and applications (e.g., email, games, work, etc.) so that your focus can be on our session. Fidget toys and drawing materials can help with focus. 
     
9. Some sessions might offer activities for you to choose from and/or time to play with digital tools before the session starts. Use that opportunity to have fun and explore new technology. Don't stress if you can't get something to work. Part of the session will be to show you how to interact and use any new apps. 
   Please keep your mic on mute when not speaking. This helps keep down any background noise. I may mute everyone at the same time if we cannot easily identify who is (accidentally) unmuted.  
    
10. My Zoom settings allow you to chat semi-privately with other students. These chats are visible to me and can be distracting at times. Therefore, please keep private chats to a minimum unless discussing session content. 
      
11. If you have a question or comment during the session, please raise your hand or put the word “stack” in the Chat. That will tell me that you want to speak next. Questions and comments are encouraged and will make the session livelier and more interesting for you and others.