Ahmed suggested integrating Zoom into the existing Canvas system in order to enable an easier transition and more options for communicating with students. In one video, ITS instructor Mohammad Ahmed walks faculty through how to use Zoom video conferencing software, including how to schedule meetings and how to use features such as the virtual whiteboard, breakout rooms, and polls. “They took great care to not make this just about the technical, but about how to address our concerns, student concerns, about lost community, about what was really at stake here.” “ were knowledgeable, didn’t make anyone feel foolish who were asking questions that were maybe very basic,” Kenny told The Maroon. Kimberly Kenny, Senior Lecturer in Norwegian Studies, said that she found the series helpful as she prepares to teach remotely.

Instructors can also access the trainings as recordings on UChicago’s “Teaching Remotely” webpage. The Office of Information Technology Services (ITS) runs the trainings, which have been offered live every day of the week over spring break, according to the University.

The webinars cover how to use technologies such as Zoom and Canvas effectively, and offer advice to instructors on how to adjust their teaching strategies to take advantage of an online format. In preparation for a quarter of “distance learning,” the University has organized a series of webinars for spring quarter instructors to assist them in transitioning their curricula online.

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