Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment is needed for Zoom?

Depending on how you wish to connect to the meeting, you will need some combination of the following:

• Computer with Internet connection

• Microphone

• Webcam – See this guide on Webcam recommendations

• Telephone

• Mobile Device (The Zoom app is available through Apple iTunes and the Google Play Store)

Can I use a virtual background in a Zoom meeting?

Virtual backgrounds are available to all users, free and licensed. Virtual backgrounds allow you to hide your surroundings with an image that is automatically “stitched” behind you. It is very similar to the green screen effects used in television and movies – and by your local weatherman!

To use the virtual background:

• When in a meeting, click on the small ^ arrow to the right of the Start/Stop Video icon on the toolbar. (If the toolbar is hidden, move your mouse to the bottom of the meeting screen, or press the ALT key.)

• Select Choose Virtual Background

• From this window, you can select an image to appear behind you. This image can be a still image or a short movie. You can select from the pre-loaded options or upload your own file.

For best results, make sure you have good lighting. Your physical background should be a solid color, and try to avoid wearing clothes that are similar in color to the virtual background. Custom backgrounds should have an aspect ratio of 16:9 and a minimum resolution of 1280 by 720 pixels.

Further Reading: Zoom guide to virtual backgrounds

What is a waiting room? How do I get into the seminar from the waiting room?

The Waiting Room feature allows the instructor to control when a student joins the seminar. When the instructor is ready to begin the seminar session, they will bring students into the seminar room. Review information about waiting for the instructor to start the seminar.

Can I alter my name in Zoom?

You can update your name in the Zoom meeting to add personal pronouns or a preferred name if you have not selected the preferred name option in Brightspace. Do not change the original display name in Zoom. Simply add additional information at the end. Please let your instructor know in the chat that you have updated your name in the meeting. Review instructions on how to update your name in a Zoom session.

Where do I access saved recordings? 

Course seminar recordings will be accessible from the seminar area in the Brightspace course. Review how to access seminar recordings. View this video to watch how to access a recording.

How soon will recordings be available?

Cloud recordings generally take about two-times the duration recorded to process, but occasionally may take up to 24 hours due to higher processing loads at that time. For example, an hour-long meeting with only 30 minutes recorded would typically take 30-60 minutes to process.

What is included in the recording?

Cloud recordings include the screen share, speaker webcam, and chat section of the Zoom room. Recordings do not capture nonverbal feedback or meeting reactions such as raise hand, emoji responses, etc.