Zoom is the webinar platform that will be used CWMA web events and when CWMA Assists Members with their events. You can video chat using Zoom on your mobile device or computer. We will be making this page a handy FAQ for all of our members. Learn more about Zoom: https://www.zoom.us

How to use Zoom on your computer or mobile device

Prerequisites

• Zoom Desktop Client or Mobile App. Your first invitation will allow you to download and register this program with your name.
• A head set with a mic can be helpful, especially if you are in a room where there may be noise behind you.
• The program is built to  avoid “echo” so you can use your laptop/mobile built-in speaker and mic. However, if you do get some echo, switching to a headset works best.

How to download Zoom

You do not necessarily need to download a Zoom client (that is, a version you download to your device and install) as a participant; the web version of Zoom will allow you to participate but some features are only available with a Zoom client. 

Click on the link below for instructions about how to install Zoom on your specific device: 

On Windows 
On Mac 
On Linux
On Android devices
On iPhones

If you are using Zoom on your phone, follow these steps:

Sign in to the Zoom mobile app.

1. Tap the Settings icon.
   
2. Tap Meeting.

Inside the Zoom meeting

Upon entering the Zoom Meeting, please make sure your mic is muted. Later in the session you may unmute your mic when appropriate (for example, in a breakout session), but to prevent disruptions to the presenters we ask that all attendees stay muted unless otherwise invited to speak by the Zoom moderator or presenter. You may participate in a Zoom Meeting in a few different ways:

Breakout Sessions: If the meeting you’re in has a breakout session, you may be transferred to a separate breakout room automatically. Otherwise, a pop-up will appear inviting you to join the breakout session. Click on the “Accept” button and Zoom will transfer you to the room. After you conclude the activities in the breakout room, click on the blue “Leave Room” button in the lower right corner of the screen. This will transport you back to the main room where everyone will come together. 

Chat: In a Zoom Meeting, you are able to message everyone in the chat, or message one person specifically. To send a message to one person, first open the chat by clicking on the icon in the bottom center of the screen. The chat message default setting sets the recipient to “Everyone”, but you can change this by selecting the drop-down arrow next to the word “Everyone” and selecting the name of the person you want to contact. Keep in mind that all messages sent via the chat, regardless of whether the recipient is a specific person or the whole group, will be recorded and sent to the meeting host. 

Reactions: The reactions icon can be found at the bottom center of the screen. The two reactions available are a thumbs-up and a pair of hands clapping. Using a reaction will post that icon in the corner of your audio feed, which will disappear automatically after a few seconds. Using these reactions can be a useful way to express appreciation without being disruptive and can also be used to give a round of applause at the end of a presentation.

Participant Menu: In a Zoom meeting you may communicate with the presenter via the Participant Menu. Click “Participants” to open the menu. From there you will find buttons to raise your hand, answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to a question, as well as other options.

Do I need to use video?

• For some events, we will use computer/smartphone Video and Audio, but you can always opt out of video and just use the audio to join the conversation. Your name will appear in place of your face or you can load your favourite headshot to be what everyone views. 
• When you use video, it is always good to ensure your camera is pointed in a way that allows people to see you well without a lot of stuff in the background. 
• Ensure the webcam is angled properly to capture you and the lighting is appropriate so the image is bright and sharp (avoid back lighting, such as a window).
• Elevate your computer or laptop (mine is up on boxes) it will help you avoid the dreaded double chin or a forehead-only image.

How does my Zoom room work?

While the platform is fairly easy to use, its basic functions are organized slightly differently depending on if you use the desktop or mobile version, so you may need to play a little to learn how to make your specific sound and set it up perfect for you. 

—->If you are not technical at all, please login early so your host can help you!

Once you have your video and/or audio as you prefer, it is the host’s job to ensure the presentation is viewable but depending on how you set up your zoom room,  you will see the presentation or you can adjust to see the chat room, other attendees, and more; the options are yours to manage.

Rest assured though, the host will also ensure you are seeing and hearing the presentation and will help you navigate the forum if there will be break out rooms, side chats, or polling.