What to do — and not to do — in Your Zoom Class

Whether you’re walking up five flights of stairs for that English course in Griffin or sprinting to make it to econ in Moody, you have an idea of what to expect once you get there. 

But what about when going to class just means clicking through to a Zoom meeting?

It takes some adjustment, but live web conferencing can be a great opportunity when we can’t meet on campus.

Here are some tips for embracing your Zoom class:

Clean up your square.

• Find a clean, quiet space. Your public library may have spaces you can reserve, if needed.
• Dress appropriately.
• Make sure your full name displays and shows up appropriately.
• Be aware of your background, lighting, and noise. The University has backgrounds you can download and apply in Zoom.
• Avoid sitting with your back to a bright light or window. 

Limit distractions.

• Let all household members know when you'll be in class and ask them not to disturb you.
• Mute your mic unless participating in discussion. Use Zoom functions like chat or raising your hand to communicate when muted (these features must be enabled by your instructor).
• Turn off/silence your cell phone.
• Close other windows on your computer. This will also reduce lag in your audio and video.

Treat it like a regular class.

• Be on time.
  • Communicate with your instructor if you will be late or if you lose your connection during class. Check your syllabus for their preferred communication method but University email is a safe bet. 
• Be prepared.
  • Test your equipment.
  • Choose your background before class; don’t change it during the meeting.
  • Gather course materials and whatever you need to take notes.
• Be respectful.
  • Don’t walk around during the meeting.
  • Only use the chat function to participate in relevant class discussion.
  • Don’t take screenshots, pictures, or otherwise record the meeting, your classmates, or your instructor without express permission to do so.
• Check the room number.
  • Only show up to meetings you’re invited to. 
  • Don’t give out access information to your courses.

It's important to note that some of these recommendations go beyond etiquette — they're part of the University's Student Code of Conduct. Refer for your Moodle course and syllabus for specific course policies and expectations.

Visit our Student Support section for Zoom resources and troubleshooting tips.