I'm teaching my first online Obby class on Zoom - how do I prepare?

So you've decided to start running live, online classes with Obby - yay!

We are here to help you set up for your first class using Zoom. If you haven't added any classes on Obby yet, see our how-to guide to online teaching > Here.

Before your class:

You should have already created a Zoom account before adding your first online class. You will also need to download Zoom to your chosen device.
> Click here to download.

Zoom also have a handy support centre which you can access > Here.

2. Test Zoom

Join a test meeting to check that Zoom is working properly on your device, and have a play around with features so that you're familiar!
Test Zoom > Here.

3. The perfect setting

Think about where you will run your class. Video chat requires a good internet connection, so it's worth sitting nearer to your WiFi router to keep the signal strong.

Make sure you have good lighting on your face, and that you are not back-lit (e.g. sitting in front of a window with bright light will make it harder for students to see your face).

Enter the video chat early so you can make sure you are there before any of your students arrive.

For more information on the Dos and Don'ts of teaching online > Click Here.

Starting your class:

1. Join early

As mentioned above, make sure to open the Zoom link for each class at least 10 mins early. This will ensure you are there before any students arrive in the class.

2. How to join

You can either login to your own Zoom account and go to your Upcoming Meetings, or you can start the class straight from your dashboard.

To access this link, go to the Timetable page on your dashboard and find the right session. Then click "Start Class". This will open up the Zoom chat.

3. Managing your Students

When your students start joining, there may be a few minutes of confusion or unclear chatter. As the host, you will have the ability to "Mute all" or mute individual students which you should utilise at your judgement.

Take this time to explain some of the basic features of Zoom to the participants (like the chat box or "Raise hand") and make sure they all know the difference between "Gallery view" and "Speaker view", and when to (and when not to) use them.

For more tips on the technical side, click the link below:
Click here for more Technical Tips

That's it - you're ready to start your class! 🎉

Experiencing technical issues?

Zoom have a very handy support centre which you can access > Here.

Please feel free to get in touch with us via the button below.