Video and voice conferencing
Digital Solutions provides video and voice conferencing to support specific communication and collaboration needs.
Video conferencing
Zoom desktop
Zoom is the University’s cloud-based video-conferencing tool, specifically tailored for teaching and learning.
Zoom features
Zoom features breakout sessions that enable you to split your viewers into smaller groups, in situations such as a training webinar or online class session.
The meeting organiser has full control of the meeting, with features such as muting all microphones, and controlling attendees’ presentation access.
Attendees can virtually “raise their hand”—allowing the session leader or instructor greater control over the collaborative classroom setting, by ensuring thoughts and opinions are shared in turn.
Zoom also includes a chat utility that can be used to communicate directly with the session leader or instructor, or with other attendees.
Accessing Zoom
Go to the Zoom website to find out more or to register for an account. If you already have an account, sign in to Zoom.
Students can participate in any type of session as invitees but cannot hold a University Zoom account.
If you want more information about using Zoom for teaching and learning, visit the CAD website for further details.
Microsoft Teams
MS Teams offers video and voice conferencing capabilities, and other collaboration features including:
- instant messaging
- screen and document sharing
- audio and video conferencing
- phone calling.
Location-based video conferencing
We also maintain room-based video conferencing facilities that require specific equipment to function. These deliver exceptional collaboration quality in selected lecture theatres, seminar spaces, and meeting rooms.
Digital Solutions has two purpose-built video conference facilities on the Kelburn Campus in Rankine Brown (RB901 and RB903), and on the Pipitea Campus in Rutherford House Mezzanine room 220 (RHMZ20). If you would like to use these facilities, contact us to book a session.
Video conferencing equipment
Hosting or participating in a video conferencing session can require specific software, and hardware, for example:
- web cameras
- headphones
- microphones.
If you need advice on what equipment you will need and how to purchase it, contact the Digital Solutions Service Desk.
Voice conferencing
Audio conferencing is now possible in most locations simply by using the hands-free functionality of any digital office phone at the University. If you are unsure how to do this, see the user guide for your handset or contact the Digital Solutions Service Desk for more help.
For other locations and medium-sized groups (maximum 10 people), Digital Solutions can provide a suitable conference phone. The room will need an existing phone line.
For larger groups, you can book an Advanced Learning and Communication Facility (ACLF rooms RB901 and RB903) on level 9 of Rankine Brown.