How to Access Zoom

Most of the time, your instructor will provide you with a Zoom meeting link either in Canvas or via email.

1. Click the Meeting Link: Click the Zoom meeting link provided by your instructor.
2. Download the Zoom App (if needed): If you don't have the Zoom desktop application installed, clicking the link may prompt you to download and run Zoom. It's recommended to install the app for the best experience. You can also download it directly from zoom.us/download.
3. Sign In (if prompted): If your institution has a specific Zoom account login using your MyUTSA ID (abc123) and PassPhrase. Always sign in with your school account to ensure your correct name appears and you have full access.
4. Join the Meeting: Once the app is launched, you'll join the meeting. You may be placed in a "Waiting Room" until your instructor admits you.

Essential Tools for Connecting and Presenting

Once you're in a Zoom meeting, here are some key features you'll use:

• Mute/Unmute Microphone: Located at the bottom left of your screen. Click to toggle your audio on or off. It's good practice to keep yourself muted when not speaking to minimize background noise.
• Start/Stop Video: Next to the microphone icon. Click to turn your webcam on or off. Your instructor may have guidelines on video usage.
• Participants: Click this icon to see a list of everyone in the meeting.
• Chat: The chat icon allows you to send text messages to everyone in the meeting, to specific individuals, or directly to your instructor. Use it for questions, comments, or sharing links.
• React: Express yourself with emojis like "thumbs up," "heart," or "clapping" without interrupting the flow of the meeting.
• Raise Hand: This option is helpful if you have a question; you can click on “Raise Hand”, and the speaker can acknowledge you.
• Share Screen: If your instructor allows it, you can click "Share Screen" to present your desktop, a specific application (like PowerPoint or a document), or even a digital whiteboard. This is crucial for presentations or collaborative work.
  • Presenting a PowerPoint: If sharing a PowerPoint, you can choose to share the entire screen or just the PowerPoint window. If you have audio/video in your presentation, be sure to check "Share computer sound" and "Optimize for video clip" when sharing.
• Breakout Rooms: Your instructor might divide the class into smaller "breakout rooms" for group discussions or activities. You'll automatically be moved into these rooms and can usually request help from the instructor.
• Live Transcription/Captions: If enabled, you might see automated captions at the bottom of the screen. You can often request this feature anonymously.