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Participating in a Zoom meeting or class: Best practices

GSE-IT shares best practices and tips for participating in a Zoom meeting

Technology Use Case

Before Meeting or Class

Setting Up Zoom
  • Download the latest Zoom client/app.
  • Make sure your Zoom profile is updated with your preferred name and pronouns.
  • If planning to open a file during the meeting, use a device that has access to that file. 
  • Connect your device to a power source.
  • Find a quiet and well-lit place. Be mindful of your background, attire, etc., as much as possible given the circumstances.
  • Close extraneous apps/programs.
  • Use headphones with a microphone.
  • Log into Zoom 2-5 minutes early, so you can test your audio, microphone, and video. 
  • For class, Canvas may be updated prior to each class with activities to do before, during, and after class. Check this prior to class to ensure you have everything you need to have a great learning experience.

During a Meeting or Class

Attending Class
  1. Classes are scheduled in Canvas via Zoom. To access the Zoom class link via Canvas:
    • Navigate to the course in Canvas and go to the Zoom header on the left, OR
    • Navigate to the Canvas Calendar and find class as an event.
  2. Canvas may be updated prior to each class with activities to do before, during, and after class. Check this prior to class to ensure you have everything you need to have a great learning experience.
  3. If necessary, rename yourself, including preferred pronouns if you’d like.
  4. Close or mute all browsers and devices that are not relevant during class time. Our devices allow us to do so much and being on them for learning can encourage us to multitask in unprecedented ways. 
  5. Expect the inevitable technical hiccup (freezing, disconnecting, loss of audio), and exercise patience and grace with one another.
Meeting Etiquette
  • Try to share your video (if experiencing connection issues, then turn it off).
  • Mute yourself when not speaking.
  • Use Zoom’s gallery view to see larger groups of participants.
  • Use the non-verbal feedback tools and chat to engage and signal without disrupting the general flow of the meeting.
  • Signal the presenter if you can’t see the shared screens.
  • Try not to send a “private chat” to the presenter as it may be difficult to monitor it while presenting.
  • If you experience a tech glitch, try to take it in stride while you troubleshoot. 
  • Overall, be flexible, adaptable, and understanding of different situations.