Below is a list of recommendations and tips that Liz Moliski put together to improve your online class experience and student engagement. Start by 1) reviewing all info on this page first and then 2) consider what tips you want to implement. Note, there are many tips you should or could implement. Focus on what you think will bring the most value to your class. If you have questions please direct them to VC-Trouble@mccombs.utexas.edu.
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Zoom Room Scheduling Instructions
Alternate Zoom Room Setup for Better Meeting Quality
This method of initiating a Zoom meeting puts the bulk of the Zoom workload onto your laptop, which will result in a better meeting experience with clearer video. Another advantage is that you can do polls and use breakout rooms.
Note: The instructions for UTC/Rowling Hall Zoom Rooms are slightly different than those for rooms in CBA/GSB. Please proceed with the appropriate set of instructions.
For UTC and Rowling Hall Zoom Rooms
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For CBA and GSB Zoom Rooms
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Plan to be on camera
- Pick an appropriate teaching background, such as a bookcase or office, while hosting
- Look at the camera, just as you would look at students in the class
- Zoom is optimized for video communication
- Make sure your audio is on and you use appropriate tone (not too soft or too loud)
- Dual screen setups let you share one desktop with students and keep Zoom controls on the other one. You can use your TV or another monitor as the second screen. It works just like plugging into a classroom projector. You have to set this up in your monitor preferences while you are connected to your second screen. Click here to learn more...
- Be careful of what you have on your desktop if you plan to share the entire desktop so that students can see multiple applications at once (i.e., slides and Excel) but not things you don’t want them to see (i.e. text message from your friend about lunch)
- Slides should be simple, without animations if possible. Connection lags can affect animations and screen shares. Consider PDF format for sharing slides since this taxes bandwidth less.
- Monitoring bandwidth usage - If you get slowness check out Slow Internet Connection Tips and be aware that the more you share (i.e. camera on, sharing screens) the more likely latency can occur.
- Use a solid network, such as your home internet or a hardwired internet connection.
- Consider using a headset (particularly if you are using PC. Macs tend to have fewer issues, in general)
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To learn more about using the Breakout Rooms feature please go here.
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Zoom Meeting and Phone Statistics
Meeting statistics allow you to view various diagnostic information during a meeting. This allows you to gauge whether you are experiencing a network, audio, or video issue during your meeting. Please visit this Zoom article for more information:
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- Email VC-Trouble@mccombs.utexas.edu
- Call 512-232-6679 (GSB/CBA) and 512-232-4646 (RRH)
For all other UT faculty, please contact your respective college or school