Zoom Information

SAQA uses a video conferencing tool called Zoom for our online meetings. Zoom can be used with all types of devices – PCs, Macs, tablets, iPhones, Android, and more! If you are unable to connect via the internet, you can opt to call in via phone instead.

The first time you access Zoom (by clicking on a link in an email or Join Meeting box), you will be prompted to download an application – this is a small program and will only take a couple minutes. You can join a meeting with or without signing in to an existing Zoom account.

If the meeting is already in session, you will be connected automatically (otherwise you will need to wait until the meeting host arrives). Note that your webcam and audio may be turned on by default – be prepared!

  • Most controls will be displayed at the bottom of your screen.
  • If you are NOT actively speaking, please mute your microphone as background noise can be a distraction
  • We cannot reserve spots for meetings – please be prompt as space is limited!
  • Consider the use of a headset instead of using your computers audio and speakers
  • If you do experience internet connectivity issues, turn off your webcam

Want to see what Zoom is about? Try it out with a test meeting here

Interested in scheduling a Zoom meeting for your SAQA committee or group?
Click the link below to complete your request or contact your Regional Rep. Note that meetings are subject to availability and are only for approved SAQA groups (regions, committees, etc.)

Submit Zoom meeting Request
Additional Resources

If you are not familiar with Zoom, please review their online resources:

Getting Started on a PC and Mac

Getting Started with IOS (Apple iPhones, iPads)

How Do I Join My Computer Audio?

My Video/Camera Isn’t Working

 

Live Transcription / Closed Captioning

Zoom has now added the ability for live transcription for meetings and webinars. When you are in a meeting or webinar where closed captioning or live transcription is available, they will automatically appear on the bottom of the screen. This feature can be toggled on/off. 

On a PC/Mac
Click the Live Transcript button and select the appropriate option.

On an ipad
To change the settings for ALL meetings:

  1. Sign in to the Zoom mobile app.
  2. Tap the Settings icon
  3. Tap Meeting.
  4. Toggle Closed Captioning to on or off. 

If the meeting or webinar is already in progress, you will need to click the 3 dots (more) and minimize to access the Zoom settings.


 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Webinar and Meeting?

Events are held in either webinar or meeting format.

Webinars are designed so that only the host and any designated panelists can share their video, audio, and screen. All other attendees are in view only mode (no audio or video) but have the ability to interact with panelists via chat mode.

Meetings are designed to be collaborative events with all participants being able to screen share, turn on their video and audio, and see who else is in attendance.

During some events (Live Chats), we will break up into smaller conversation groups within a Meeting. This allows attendees engage with each other within groups of 20 or smaller.

Webinar: How can I ask a question of a presenter or panelist?

If you move your cursor to the bottom of the Zoom screen, you will see a Chat button. Click on that, move to the right hand box that appears, click in the area that says “Type message here” and type your question. A moderator will ask the questions as time permits. In some Webinars, there is a Q&A button which is used instead. You will be provided instructions at the beginning of the webinar.


Chat button

More Info

Meeting: What is the difference between Gallery and Speaker View?

When in a Zoom meeting, you can toggle between Gallery View (aka Brady Bunch or Hollywood Square view) or Speaker view (larger image for person who is talking). This setting is located in the upper right on a PC/Mac. 

Depending on your computer, you can view 49 people on the screen instead of the default 25. This setting is located on Video Settings (click the caret next to Stop/Start Video on your toolbar). This setting is grayed out if your computer isn't capable of displaying that many images.

Gallery View

 

More Info

Can I chat with another attendee?

You can use the Chat button during Meeting Room and Webinar sessions to "talk" to another attendee. Just specify the name of the person you want to speak with instead of “Everyone” and type away. During webinars you can also specify to send your chat message just to the Panelist / Host.

HINT:
Please make sure you include your full name when joining a Zoom meeting or webinar so people know it's you. You can also change it when you are in the Meeting by clicking on the three dots next in your Zoom square.

What are the guidelines for Meeting Rooms?

When you are in a Meeting Room, please follow the guidelines below.

  • If you are NOT actively speaking, please mute your microphone as background noise can be a distraction.
  • Please turn off your video if you are not actively participating or if you are moving around.
  • Consider the use of a headset instead of using your computers audio and speakers.
  • If you do experience internet connectivity issues, turn off your webcam - this frees up some bandwidth that can sometimes help.
  • Do use your full name when joining the meeting so everyone knows your name

Help - I no longer see my Zoom screen?

If your Zoom screen disappears, it may be that you have switched to another application on your computer. Look at your taskbar at the bottom and look for the blue Zoom symbol. Click on it.

If this doesn't fix it, you may have accidentally minimized the Zoom screen. Check to see if there is a small window on the upper right of your screen. Hovering over the bottom of this window will provide you with an icon to exit minimized mode.

More Info