ZOOM HELP FOR PARENTS

JOIN THE DIGITAL CLASSROOM!

Access Zoom links in the Parent Portal.

What is Zoom?
Zoom is a video-chatting tool. Zoom can be an empowering tool for children, with features that help them learn in fun and engaging ways, express their creativity, and stay connected to others.  

How does Zoom work?
Zoom classes can be accessed on almost any device, including a standard smartphone. Download Zoom from the company's Download Center, iTunes, or Google Play. Parents receive a class welcome email 1-2 days before class from the Starfire teacher with all the key class information. The class links includs an 11-digit meeting ID that you click or tap to get into the class and a password. 

Before class, it's a good idea to open the Zoom software and test your webcam and microphone to make sure they're working well. You can also test your internet connection by joining a test meeting (if your Wi-Fi connection is unstable, you can improve video performance by connecting directly to your ethernet).

Why use Zoom?
Zoom is well suited for educational instruction. Teachers can implement many powerful instruction techniques to help facilitate dynamic, fun classes. Classes can be accessed at a later time for review. Everything that can be done in the physical classroom can be done virtually through Zoom.

Here's just a sampling of what you can do in Zoom:

  • Screen share - This allows the entire class to view one person's computer screen. Students can even annotate a document on another student’s computer. Teachers can restrict this so only their screen can be shared.

  • Whiteboard - This is a brainstorming tool that lets students toss ideas around, such as for a group project.

  • Breakout rooms - The teacher can divide students up into smaller groups and then bring the entire class back together.

  • Raise hand, clap, disagree, speed up, slow down - These are icons students can use to let the teacher know they have a question or comment, react to something, or ask the teacher to talk faster or slower.

  • Chat with the group - Students can send a message to the entire class.

How do I access Zoom classes?
Before the start of your first Starfire class, you will receive a welcome letter through email with a calendar invite from the teacher and a link to join the class. The link provided for the first class can be used to access each future class.

What are the best practices to keep Zoom classes safe?
We take the privacy and security of our classrooms seriously. Starfire uses the The Stanford University guidelines for our Zoom classes.
Our teachers control who joins the class through a digital Waiting Room. Our classes are password protected for extra security.

How can I support my child during class?

  • Review features: Try to make sure children know basic functionality, such as how to: join a meeting through a link or login; activate the video; mute the sound; use the text chat; share their screen (so they can work on something together); record the class; use any other special features.

  • Create a calendar reminder for class.

  • Adjust sound and video.

  • Assemble necessary equipment: Students may need earphones, a microphone, and paper and pencils to take notes. Teachers will notify you in advance if any special materials are required for class.

  • Plug your device in and close all other tabs: Video-conferencing uses a lot of device power. It's a good idea to keep devices plugged in and, if possible, use an ethernet cord to connect directly to the internet. To prevent video from stuttering, close out of any other tabs so the device can put all its muscle into the video.

  • Set expectations for how your child should conduct themselves on camera: Face the screen; mute yourself when you're not speaking; unmute yourself when you're ready to talk; listen carefully to other participants; use non-verbal tools to participate like “raise hand” and “clap”.

  • Set up the device in a quiet area where you can offer support if necessary. Older students may prefer more privacy. 

  • Review expectations for class: The same rules apply in the virtual classroom as the physical classroom—show respect, have a growth mindset, and be ready for fun!