Preparing For Your Zoom Class

Zoom is a video and audio communications platform that allows users to connect online for meetings, classes and webinars.

You do not need a Zoom account and you do not need to download the Zoom application. Just click on the link provided to you and open Zoom in your browser. If you are not able to log in through the browser, please download the Zoom app and enter the Meeting ID and Password to join the session.

 

What You Will Need

• A laptop or desktop computer
• A reliable internet connection (hardwired or wifi)
• A webcam (built-in or external)
• Microphone
• Headset (optional)
• Pen and paper to take notes

A tablet or cell phone may work, but features are limited which may impact your experience in the class.

 

Joining a Zoom Class

• The easiest way to join a Zoom class is to click on the Zoom link provided to you. The link stays the same for all classes in the course. You will be emailed the link 1 to 3 days before each class. If your course uses the training website, you'll also find the link in the course materials on the site.

• Do not be late! Log in 10 minutes before and test your connection, microphone and camera. Or you can use this test meeting at https://zoom.us/test to check your setup.

• When you join a Zoom class, you will be placed in the Zoom waiting room until the class starts.

• Once you are in the class, check your display name and if your name is not accurate, please rename yourself.

• Turn your video on and make sure you can be seen. Participation is an important aspect of DGC BC courses, and having your video on during class is required. If you are not visible during class, we will consider you as having left the class, and the Missed Days policy will apply.

• Please keep your audio on mute until you want to speak. This will help to limit background noise.

 

Expectations

• This is a virtual classroom; therefore, appropriate classroom behaviour is expected.

• To ensure you get the most out of this learning experience and that you do not distract your fellow classmates, please join the class from a quiet, distraction-free environment.

• Ensure there is nothing visible behind that could be distracting to others. You can use a blurred or virtual background on Zoom. Please do not use video backgrounds.

• Do not join the class from work, while driving in your car, from the gym, or from any other environment that will divert your attention away from the class, or you risk removal from the class.

 

Participating in a Zoom Class

• To speak or ask a question in the class, unmute your microphone by clicking the Unmute icon.

• Send a message to everyone in the class by clicking the Chat icon.

• Raise your digital hand by clicking Reactions, then Raise Hand. To lower your hand, click the Lower Hand icon.

• Do not record or create a transcript of the class.

 

Tips

• Zoom requires a lot of bandwidth (see Zoom system requirements). You can check your internet bandwidth using Speedtest at https://www.speedtest.net/.

• If you are experiencing poor performance, try disabling HD video. Go to Settings, click the Video tab, and uncheck the box.

• Be mindful of your background lighting. If you are sitting with your back to a window, you may be silhouetted by the light coming through. Your overhead light might also need to be adjusted for the best image quality.

• If your webcam isn't working, as a quick fix, sign in with your cell phone as a second device and use it as your camera.

 

Zoom Support

For more how-to instructions, explore Zoom Support and Zoom FAQ.

Back to top