Using Zoom

You’ll use Zoom to talk to your instructor or TAs during office hours or other synchronous online meetings. If you are new to Zoom, you need to download Zoom to your device Links to an external site. before your first meeting. Zoom is available for laptops, or as an app on Android and iOS devices. If you’re already a Zoom pro, make sure Zoom is updated Links to an external site.! Zoom updates frequently and your software or app should be up to date for the best experience.

For help beyond this page, visit  Zoom's help site Links to an external site.or their catalog of Video Tutorials. Links to an external site.

Before joining your meeting

Other tips for Zoom

  • Treat Zoom meetings as you would a class meeting, office hours, or a job interview. 
  • If possible attend Zoom meetings in a quiet place with some privacy and a stable internet connection.
  • Turn your camera on so that your classmates and instructor can see you (if you’re in a sufficiently private place). Enabling your webcam will increase your engagement with the lecture or discussion.
  • Use a virtual background Links to an external site. if you’d like. (It’s a perfect way to maintain some privacy when you’re at home.)
  • Add a profile picture Links to an external site. to your Zoom account. It doesn’t have to be a photo of you. It can be any image that communicates who you are. 
  • Use earphones, headphones, earbuds, or a headset to prevent feedback from your microphone. 
  • Use chat to ask questions if you can’t use your microphone.
  • Keep chat open so that you see your classmates’ messages.
  • Use nonverbal feedback Links to an external site. or reactions Links to an external site. to respond to your instructors or peers. (PS: You can change your skin tone for reactions!)
  • When prompted to join a breakout room, click “Join breakout room.”
  • Stay engaged in the conversation. Respond to questions, either with your microphone (if allowed), by chat, or with non-verbal feedback. 
  • Remain present in the Zoom meeting for the entire duration of the meeting. 
  • If there’s a Zoombomber in your meeting, let your instructor or TA know. 
  • Mute your microphone if you are not speaking.