Zoom Help for OLLI Students | Courses - OLLI | Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

During OLLI’s fall 2020 term, all classes will be held online. Most instructors will use Zoom videoconferencing to deliver their classes “live” in real time over the internet. Students taking those classes will need to use Zoom in order to participate. The Zoom service is easy to use and free to people “joining a meeting.” Using videoconferencing, you will be able to see PowerPoint presentations and videos that instructors often use. You can even practice by “joining a meeting” (not a real meeting) on the Zoom site. OLLI is providing member-to-member Zoom support for anyone needing help.

We hope that students will familiarize themselves with Zoom before the first day of their classes. The basic information about Zoom meetings provided on this page should offer a good start. If you have questions about Zoom, you can contact the OLLI office at olli@sou.edu or 541-552-6048.

Click on the links below for help. More information about Zoom will be added to this page, so check back.

What is Zoom?

What do I need to have to use Zoom on my computer?

Watch how to join an OLLI class by installing the Zoom software app on your computer

This is the method used by most people who use Zoom. You will be able to both see and hear the instructor and any presentations s/he may use (like PowerPoint or web pages) and you will be able to see and hear the other people in the meeting.

Click this link for a 2 minute video of how to join a meeting and make sure the audio and video on your computer is working.

Join a “test” meeting to try out Zoom

Suggestions to improve your Zoom experience

Join a test meeting BEFORE your OLLI class to make sure everything works.
Use a headset to minimize feedback. Cellphone earbuds with in-line microphones, as well as over-the-ear headphones, work well.
Elevate your device (laptop, tablet, or phone) so the camera in your device is level with your eyes. Otherwise, it may seem to other people that they are looking at your chin.
Light your face from the front. When the light is from behind you, your face appears in a dark shadow. You can check this in the video window before you join a meeting.