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Zoom for students

Zoom for students

Zoom is a web conferencing tool that your instructor may use as part of their course. There is a free version and a paid version; students only need the free version.

Prepare

  1. You will need a computer (preferred) or mobile device in order to join a Zoom session. It is recommended that you use a wired internet connection when connecting to Zoom, but it is not required - if you do use a wireless connection, it should be a strong connection.
  2. Make an account
    • Go to siena.zoom.us/signin
    • Click on “Sign in with Google” (towards the bottom of the screen)
    • Select your Siena Account
    • Enter your password
    • Click on “Create Account”
  3. Download the Zoom app to your device.  
    • To install the app manually, please visit Download Center. 
    • If you are invited to a meeting via an URL link, it will automatically prompt to download the app when you click on the URL link. Make sure you have time before the meeting starts
  4. Test your audio and video by joining a test meeting.
    • You are able to connect your audio via computer or phone. If you have a weaker internet connection, phone audio might be the better choice. You may want to use headphones or a headset if you have any background noise. 

Using Zoom

Joining the Meeting
  1. Find a quiet place to participate in the synchronous sessions, free of outside distractions. Be sure to close all extraneous windows or programs on your computer.
  2. Join your class session by joining the meeting
    Prerequisites
    • Each meeting has a unique 9, 10, or 11-digit number called a meeting ID that will be required to join a Zoom meeting
    • If you are joining via telephone, you will need the teleconferencing number provided in the invite.
    1. Open the Zoom desktop client.
    2. Click Join a Meeting if you want to join without signing in.
    3. Enter the meeting ID number provided by your instructor
    4. Select if you would like to connect audio and/or video and click Join.
    5. The meeting will begin once the instructor has entered the Zoom meeting. 

During class

Once you’ve joined the Zoom meeting, there are a few features you may use during the class session. Most of these features can be found on the Zoom menu at the bottom of the screen. 

  • Video/Audio – The buttons on the left of the menu allow you to mute/unmute your audio and turn your video on and off. Be sure to mute yourself when you’re not speaking to avoid excess background noise. 
  • Raising your hand – Clicking on “Participants” will open the Participants list, where you will find a “Raise Hand” icon. 
  • Chat – You can also use the chat feature to make comments or pose questions.  

Getting Help