How to use video ("Zoom")

Step 1: Getting Oriented

When we think about communicating with our students, typically our first thought may be talking with them face to face (f2f) in the classroom. However, there are other methods for effective teaching which include teaching at a distance. At Columbia State, we have classes that are created expressly to conduct class via video conferencing tools. We call these Desktop Video Conferencing (DVC) courses.

Video conferencing tools are used not only as a convenient method to teach at a distance, but also because it is presents a unique opportunity to create effective teaching practices to improve student learning. According to the article The Value of Video in Online Instruction in the Journal of Instructional Pedagogies by authors Denis P. Rudd II and Denis P. Rudd:

The studies indicated students perceive effectiveness in streaming video as a component of web conferencing/virtual training. Students also found using video to personalize the classroom experience helped to bridge the gap between traditional forms of instruction and online instruction. Furthermore, video is most effective when paired or grouped with other instructional tools (blogs, chatting, screen sharing, file sharing, and a host of others).

To leverage the advantages of video conferencing for the classroom, our institution is currently utilizing Zoom.

Step 2: Sign up

As a faculty member, you will need to sign up for a basic account. This first step is necessary so that you can then request your Pro/Licensed account from the Media Services team. A Pro/Licensed account provides the full Zoom privileges.

NOTE: If you are an adjunct faculty member who teaches for multiple institutions, please ONLY use your Columbia State Zoom account for your Columbia State students and classes. Failure to do so could cause some serious issues.

We recommend that you download the entire document below and carefully review; essential basics like how to create a meeting link, how to start a session in Zoom, and information about recordings are all included.

Click for the Zoom Faculty Guide.

(Please note that there may be some references here to downloading to the "classroom computer" and other face to face to face/on-campus scenarios. Keep in mind that modifications may be necessary due to COVID-19).

Step 3: Resources

Be sure to review the institution DVC resource page: this lists comprehensive information for both students and faculty on this webpage:

http://dvc.columbiastate.edu/index.html

You'll notice there are 3 tabs on this page; review each of these tabs for additional helpful information.

Zoom also regularly publishes excellent resources located here at their company site.