What is Zoom?
Zoom is a video conferencing platform that allows various forms of communication and interaction, including online classes, meetings, and webinars.
Availability
- Zoom Meetings is available via myTC portal to all TC faculty, current students, and staff. It is also integrated into Canvas to provide easier and safer access to Zoom class sessions.
- To request a Zoom webinar license, TC faculty and staff should contact the Teachers College Service Desk.
- Zoom Mobile App: Download available for iOS/Andriod devices: Allows users to join meetings, schedule meetings, chat with contacts, view a directory of contacts, and record meetings. Some features may not be available due to license or add-on restrictions.
- Zoom client: Download available for Mac/PC: Zoom Desktop Client includes all major functions which allow users to schedule meetings, join meetings, and most importantly check for updates. It also offers other functionalities that allow for easier navigation, such as the clear outline of meeting links, easier sharing access of recorded meeting links, and Zoom chat for communication.
Accessibility
Accessibility testing for this product was completed on August 31, 2021. Any subsequent updates to the product or associated input devices after this date are not reflected on the current assessment.
Zoom meets most of Teachers College’s accessibility criteria. To optimize accessibility, follow the guidelines below:
- Customize the font size of chat and closed captioning using the Accessibility Settings.
- Turn on Live Transcription to turn on automatically generated closed captions and transcripts.
- Spotlight speakers’ videos so everyone can see them, or customize your own view by pinning multiple videos.
- Disseminate any shared content either via email, or if possible in the “Chat” function. Currently Zoom’s shared screen functions are not accessible for assistive technology.
- Consider eliminating unnecessary background noise through strategic muting, using headphones, and carefully developing audio content.
- Be aware of sharing distracting or triggering visuals and Zoom backgrounds (such as flashing or scrolling content) when presenting on Zoom.
- Provide meaningful directions or allow users the time to learn the interface of their Zoom application as the view looks drastically different on mobile compared to desktop.
If other accommodations are required, contact TC’s OASID for assistance.
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