Video conferencing with Zoom

1: Zoom Upgrades

What to expect?

To enable teaching to occur, we are using an online video conferencing platform called Zoom.

This video gives a brief orientation to Zoom.

What do I need to know generally about using Zoom?

Your lecturer will set up and invite you to any meetings for teaching and learning.

The first time you use zoom you will be asked to download a plug-in. This takes a few minutes, but once it’s done you are set to go, and won’t need to do this every time you attend class.

You will be able to see the lecturer, view PowerPoints, and engage with other students. It may feel a bit odd at first, but you will adjust very quickly.

In terms of equipment you need access to a computer (that is not too old), and a modern web browser so you can get in to ARK. Using a set of headphones plugged in to your computer improves the sound quality for you, and indeed for others too. If you have a web cam (most laptops have one) you can make yourself visible for others to see, but this is not essential.

It is also possible to use a phone to come in to the class “live”.

Where do I download Zoom from?

You can download all of the Zoom client applications from this page - look for ‘Zoom Client for Meetings’. Official apps are the preferred method to join meetings. In addition, there is a web client hat can be used in a browser as a last resort; Google Chrome is the preferred option here.

What about upgrading?

We have this page on updates to Zoom software

How can I test my audio setup?

You can work through this Zoom support document on testing the audio configuation on your device.

How can I test my video setup?

You can work through this Zoom support document on testing the audio configuation on your device.

Is there a way to join a meeting to check that everything is working?

Yes, there is a test meeting that anyone can join via this link https://divinity.zoom.us/test. There is also a support document about this.

1 - Zoom Upgrades

Version 5 Update for Zoom users

Before the 30th May, all Zoom users will need to update the app to be on version 5.0 or higher. Otherwise, you will not be able to join a meeting.

This change is to the Zoom application itself and does not alter or require changes to your settings or any meetings scheduled.

Mobile Devices

If you use Zoom on a mobile device, it will automatically upgrade to 5.0 if you have automatic upgrades configured. Otherwise, you will need to visit the App Store for your device to perform an upgrade.

Windows / macOS – Desktop Applications

Desktop apps do not automatically upgrade. You can either visit the download page (link below) or choose the “check for updates” menu option in the Zoom app.

From the 30th May, if an older version of Zoom attempts to join a meeting, you will receive a prompt to upgrade the app. Some older versions will offer users the option to participate via the web and do the upgrade later.

To upgrade your app now, please visit https://zoom.us/download#client_4meeting

If you are using a work provisioned device, you may need to coordinate with your IT department to have this update installed, please refer them to https://zoom.us/docs/en-us/zoom-v5-admin.html