Zoom is a cloud-based conferencing tool that provides both video conferencing and screen-share capabilities. Instructors can use Zoom to present live or pre-recorded lectures, host virtual office hours, and hold discussions with students.
If you haven’t used Zoom before, this Quickstart Guide to Setup Zoom provides step-by-step instructions on downloading and setting up Zoom on your personal computer. This Quickstart Guide also explains how to:
Set up and test a microphone/camera;
Schedule and host live meetings;
Record your meetings;
Share a recording of your meeting via email or on Canvas.
Adding More Students in Zoom's Gallery View
If you have fairly new computer, the latest version of the Zoom software and a robust connection to the internet you can add up to 49 thumbnail images to a single screen in Zoom's Gallery View. Follow these instructions to find out how: HOW TO ADD MORE
You can use Zoom in “audio only” or “screen-share” mode. You will need a microphone, which can be the internal microphone built into your computer or an external microphone, such as a headset.
If you choose to use Zoom video-conferencing, most laptop and desktop computers have built-in video capability. Tablets, such as the iPad, also have cameras and microphones. For the best Zoom experience you may want to use a good quality camera and headset instead of your computer’s built-in capabilities. Zoom works just fine with the built-ins, but the quality is even sharper with higher quality hardware. The Deans’ Office has a limited supply of IT accessories available for check out. Please email Donna Creasman at dlcreasman@usfca.edu to inquire if there is equipment you can use at home.
You can test the audio and video capability of your computer by going to Settings in the Zoom software. While Zoom does have sophisticated compression software, video conferencing may exceed the capability of your home internet access. Make sure you conduct a test session before attempting a conference with your class.