Hardware

You will need access to a computer with a camera and a microphone to conduct synchronous (live) video sessions and to record videos. If you do not have these, we may be able to provide them. Please contact ATLAS through its Share program.

Internet Access

For synchronous (live) sessions, high-speed internet access is strongly recommended. If you have low-speed/limited data internet service and are unable to use the Illinois Net on campus, we recommend using pre-recorded videos, instead. You can go to speedtest.net to do test your connection. For using Zoom, the minimum internet connection is 800 kbps and the recommended one is 1.5 Mbps (up/down). Please keep in mind that your students may also have internet access limitations. Consider using synchronous (live) streaming sessions only when necessary.

Learning Management System (LMS)

An LMS, such as Moodle or Compass/Blackboard, provides a secure way for you to share instructional materials and assignments with students online. If your course does not currently use an LMS, one can be quickly provided for you. 

Moodle

Compass/Blackboard

Video-Conferencing platforms

As LAS faculty and staff members, you have a license to use Zoom that allows you to engage in live web conversations with your students using audio, video, and text-based chat features. You can access Zoom at https://illinois.zoom.us, and it can be integrated into the Moodle and Compass/Blackboard LMSs. Please review the Teaching with Zoom guide that contains detailed information on how to use Zoom for instruction.

Blackboard Collaborate is another video-conferencing platform that LAS faculty members can use (until it is retired by Tech Services in June 2020). You can use it within Moodle and within Compass/Blackboard. If you are currently using Collaborate, we encourage you to keep doing so (no need to switch to Zoom until after the Spring semester finishes in May).