Guidelines for using Zoom for class meetings (if we have to resort to this as a backup):

Zoom video. The success of this learning environment hinges in great part on our ability to interact with each other and on our ability to build a community. To that end, I ask that you all make a regular habit of participating in the class sessions with your video engaged. I recognize that this is not always possible (e.g., due to technical bandwith limitations) or preferable (e.g., if there are distractions occurring in someone’s background). Some students may have other legitimate reasons justifying participation without video in some or all class sessions. Accordingly, please contact me privately if you have reservations about this policy, and I will work with you to address your concerns or waive the policy.

Zoom etiquette. Please dress appropriately and mute your microphone except when you wish to talk. Please try not to interrupt other students when they are speaking, and more generally use respectful tones and language with one another at all times. But I most strongly encourage you to interrupt me with questions and critiques. To do so, physically raise your hand, activate Zoom’s raised hand emoji, unmute your mic and talk, or use the Zoom chat window, among other possibilities. If I do not notice someone’s interjection, please speak up and alert me that another student has a question. Please read Emory College’s “Netiquette for Online Classrooms” and the Rules of Zoom Engagement for other prevailing norms about participation in Zoom class sessions. You may wish to refer to Emory College’s “Online Learning Strategies” tips for success in online studies as well.

Zoom technical problems. At some point this semester, one or more of us will likely experience a technical interruption to a Zoom class session. If that occurs, try to rejoin, at least until the class time is over. If it occurs on my end, I will restart Zoom and renew the session at the same regular Zoom meeting ID, and you will probably be able to join soon after. We will be flexible and adjust to the new regime.

Zoom Configuration

Please set up your Zoom profile, ideally with your full first and last name and a recent portrait image, so I can more easily call on you, recognize you, and retain better records of class participation.
Here is a tutorial on using Zoom virtual backgrounds, which you are free to use.