Zoom
Zoom is a communications platform that allows users to connect with video, audio, phone, and chat. Zoom is a cloud-based video conferencing platform that can be used for video conferencing meetings, audio conferencing, webinars, meeting recordings, and live chat.
Where is the tool used?
Zoom helps consolidate communications, connect people, and collaborate better together in the boardroom, classroom, operating room, and everywhere in between.
It is in use in:
- Education
- Financial Services
- Government
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Retail
How to use the tool?
Users can join Zoom meetings or webinars from their web browser and bypass downloading Zoom:
- Locate the meeting invite link from your email or calendar invitation.
- Click the join link to join the meeting.
- If a pop-up window prompts you to open or install the Zoom desktop client, click Cancel.
- At the bottom of the page, click the Join from your Browser link.
- Note: If you don't see this option, make sure to enable Join From Browser.
- If prompted, sign in to your Zoom account. If you do not have a Zoom account, create a new account.
- You will be prompted to enter your name and the meeting password if it was not included in the join link.
- Click Join.
Specifics for SEL contexts
Zoom is a video conferencing tool that provides instructors and students a way to meet online synchronously via a personal PC/laptop or cell phone with or without using video.
Zoom offers robust collaboration and engagement tools as part of its standard free license, including the ability to connect using VoIP or via traditional phone when the internet is not available. Administrators, teachers, parents, and students also have access to
- Unlimited meetings for up to 100 participants
- HD audio and video
- Screen sharing
- Whiteboarding
- Annotation
- Breakout Rooms
- Virtual backgrounds
- In-meeting chat
- Local recording
- Nonverbal feedback
Learning activities
Zoom provides:
- HD Video & Audio
- Exceptional clarity and quality for virtual and hybrid classes.
- Security & Compliance
- Zoom enables FERPA/HIPAA compliance and provides 256-bit encryption.
- Session Recording & Transcription
- Record classes and lessons to allow students to learn at their own pace.
- Enhanced Collaboration Features
- One-click content sharing, real-time co- annotation, and digital whiteboarding.
- Seamless LMS Integration
- Zoom supports integrations with Moodle, Canvas, Desire2Learn, Sakai, and Blackboard.
- Accessibility for All Learners
Accessibility and technical specifics
Type of tool:
- Free under limitations (e.g., 40 minutes meetings)
Materials needed:
- An internet connection – broadband wired or wireless (3G or 4G/LTE)
- Speakers and a microphone – built-in, USB plug-in, or wireless Bluetooth.
- A webcam or HD webcam - built-in, USB plug-in, or: An HD cam or HD camcorder with a video-capture card.
Accessibility:
The application is really easy to use even if the free Basic plan is restricted to a large series of features e.g., number of attendees, duration etc.
Links to videos and instructions:
ZOOM has developed a series of videos to support the use of the platform: https://learn-zoom.us/show-me
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