Set Ground Rules for Using Zoom Videoconferencing
In a traditional classroom, we have some cultural norms that guide our behavior. Students and faculty have expectations of each other, and instructors are comfortable stopping disruptive behavior before it impacts the rest of the class. When we get together in Zoom, we don’t have those pre-established expectations, and it can make social interactions challenging. Here are a few ground rules that can help set standards for classroom behavior:
- Set expectations for camera use but be flexible. Zoom sessions are much more interactive when students and faculty can see each other. At the same time, understand that students were thrown into this situation suddenly, and they might have personal reasons for not showing what’s going on in the background behind them.
- Allow the use of virtual backgrounds. Using a virtual backdrop hides the clutter behind students and allows them to participate in class without exposing their homes to their classmates. Of course, using virtual backgrounds requires moderation.
- Require real names. Students should log in with their real names to help facilitate real interaction, especially for classes that never had the opportunity to meet in person.