What is Zoom?
Zoom is a web-based video conferencing tool with a local, desktop client and a mobile app that allows users to meet online, with or without video. Zoom users can choose to record sessions, collaborate on projects, and share or annotate on one another’s screens, all with one easy-to-use platform.
How do I use Zoom?
To join a Meeting:
1. Go to Zoom.us
2. Click the “Join a Meeting” tab. You can find the tab on the top right corner of the homepage
3. When prompted, add your designated Meeting ID (The Meeting ID can be a 9, 10, or 11-Digit number). The Meeting ID should be provided by the host which will be your professor.
4. You’re in!
Once your signed in you there are a few things you can do while in a meeting/class:
Once you click on the provided URL for the meeting, Zoom will ask you if you would like to download Zoom application or joining the meeting using your web browser. IMPORTANT: click on “Download and Run Zoom” and follow the prompts on your computer to install and run the app:
The Zoom app will automatically download to your computer and open Zoom dashboard. From your App dashboard then click on “Join” button.
Zoom then will prompt you to enter the meeting’s URL into a pop-up window:
NOTE: You will only need to install Zoom App once it once. Once installed everytime you join the meeting simply open the app and then enter the URL of the meeting in the Join the meeting field.
Once you click Join, you will be asked to enter your name. The video and audio controls in Zoom are located on the bottom left and should connect to your computer’s mic and camera automatically. ***It is a great idea to use earbuds or headphones to help block out any background noises (some professors will ask you to do this).***
You can unmute or mute your audio, start video which will turn your camera on for others in the class to see you, and share your screen.
Under the more option you can invite people (though this is usually up to the professor), view participants, chat with your professor and classmates, and record the meeting.
When your professor announces the class is done, you can leave the meeting by clicking on leave meeting.
Check out this video from our librarian Melanie on how to access and navigate Zoom!