So we’re online and attending Zoom classes. Great – but they are a little different to live classes, where most of the time we are watching the Leader and not our fellow class members.
In a Zoom session – we are all on TV! If our camera and microphones are on, everyone in the class can see and hear us. This is great for maintaining contact, feeling a little less isolated, and interacting with our classmates. But there are things we need to be mindful of.
Here are some Zoom hints for participating in sessions:
Get ready
- Set up your device in a quiet space to minimise noise and distractions.
- If you are using a tablet or smartphone, either prop it up in front of you or turn your device’s camera off. Moving the device means your image is constantly on the move and that can be very distracting.
- Check your own video image in the class view so you can adjust your camera if too high or low. Your class members don’t want to look up your nose or see just the top of your head.
- Remember, you and your surroundings are on display if your camera is on so have good lighting and check the surroundings behind you – ironing piled up, dirty dishes, partner coming out of the shower….not a good look!
- For U3A classes, never give the class link to anyone who is not enrolled in the class. This is part of our conditions of use.
- Join 5-10 minutes before the start, just as with a live class.
During the class
- If you are not speaking, mute your microphone. Your classmates don’t really want to hear the dog barking, phone or doorbell ringing, next door’s lawnmower, someone else speaking in the background, or you sneezing and coughing. Paper rustling and keyboard tapping can be particularly annoying to everyone trying to concentrate on the leader.
- It’s not rude to turn off your camera if you’d prefer not to be seen – always wise if you need to scratch, yawn or pick your nose! Don’t eat during the meeting if your camera is on – not always pleasant to watch! Forgot to comb your hair or shave? Maybe camera stays off today.
- Try not to multitask. Often tempting to check email, search the web, tidy up the desk. If you must, at least mute and perhaps turn your camera off.
- As host, your Leader can mute your microphone or turn off your camera for you, if you are not sure how to do it yourself.
Ken Briscoe
Zoom Co-ordinator