Synchronous Video Lecture with Zoom

zoom meeting window

Zoom is an online and mobile meeting solution that combines real-time chat, content sharing, and video in an easy-to-use interface to enrich teaching and learning. It integrates with CourseWeb (Blackboard) and the University’s new Learning Management System (Canvas) to facilitate remote teaching and learning.  Visit the Zoom instructional page for detailed guides. 

Suggested Class Use Setup

  • Faculty should log on to https://pitt.zoom.us first to ensure their account is created. 
  • On the Meetings page, you can create a recurring meeting for your scheduled class time by checking the box beside Recurring meeting.  There you can schedule the recurrance options (how often it happens weekly, the times and the end date).
  • Once you've saved the meeting, you will see meeting details.  You will need to share this information with your students (either via email, TWEN or Canvas).  (Pro Tip: click on Copy Invitation link. In the pop-up, copy from "Join Zoom Meeting" through the "Passcode: ***" text.)

Logging into Zoom

  • Sign out if it is signed in (top right).
  • Click on Sign In with SSO.  (You must always choose this option.)
  • Your company domain is “pitt” without quotes.  Click on Continue.
  • You should be redirected to Pitt Passport to log on.

Additional Features and Integrations

The following were found to be useful articles for faculty:

Zoom Connection to Canvas

Zoom web-conferencing can be used to set up synchronous online class meetings with your students directly through Canvas. We are finding that for many users, this process goes more smoothly if they pay a visit to https://pitt.zoom.us first, and sign in there at least once before using the integration.

Whiteboard

Simulate the use of a chalkboard by using the Whiteboard tool.

Breakout Rooms

Break up students into small discussion groups or use for group work.

Polling

Create single choice or multiple choice questions that participants can use to respond to.

More Tips for Zoom:

  • Best used with 30 or less students.
  • Use video on, even if students do not.
  • Look directly at the webcam. This makes what you have to say more meaningful.
  • Always record session; however, you could make a part of the discussion off recording for more personal questions before or after a session. This can allow for students to feel they can approach you.
  • Be sure to monitor the chat. Alternatively, you may assign a student or TA to monitor and ask questions when needed for a participant.
  • Turn on 49 thumbnails for the viewing screen.
  • Additional resources may be found on the Zoom Help Documentation.

Support

The University Center for Teaching and Learning has documented all tools provided in this section. This serves as a guide to finding that documentation. You can always contact them by the following means:

University Center for Teaching and Learning
Support Hours: Monday – Friday 8-5
Phone: 412-648-2832
Email: teaching@pitt.edu

CSSD Technology Help Desk
Support Hours: 24/7/365
Phone: 412-624-4357
Email: helpdesk@pitt.edu