Video conferencing with Zoom

What to expect?

To enable teaching to occur, we are using an online video conferencing platform called Zoom.

This video gives a brief orientation to Zoom.

What do I need to know generally about using Zoom?

Your lecturer will set up and invite you to any meetings for teaching and learning.

The first time you use zoom you will be asked to download a plug-in. This takes a few minutes, but once it’s done you are set to go, and won’t need to do this every time you attend class.

You will be able to see the lecturer, view PowerPoints, and engage with other students. It may feel a bit odd at first, but you will adjust very quickly.

In terms of equipment you need access to a computer (that is not too old), and a modern web browser so you can get in to ARK. Using a set of headphones plugged in to your computer improves the sound quality for you, and indeed for others too. If you have a web cam (most laptops have one) you can make yourself visible for others to see, but this is not essential.

It is also possible to use a phone to come in to the class “live”.

Where do I download Zoom from?

You can download all of the Zoom client applications from this page - look for ‘Zoom Client for Meetings’. Official apps are the preferred method to join meetings. In addition, there is a web client hat can be used in a browser as a last resort; Google Chrome is the preferred option here.

What about upgrading?

We have this page on updates to Zoom software

How can I test my audio setup?

You can work through this Zoom support document on testing the audio configuation on your device.

How can I test my video setup?

You can work through this Zoom support document on testing the audio configuation on your device.

Is there a way to join a meeting to check that everything is working?

Yes, there is a test meeting that anyone can join via this link https://divinity.zoom.us/test. There is also a support document about this.

Last modified March 25, 2024: clarity edits (db474f9)