Classroom Quick Start Guide

Learn how to get started in a classroom at Utah State University.



Info
Pro Tips
  • Before using a classroom, check it out a few days before the semester begins and go through these steps to familiarize yourself with the room.
  • If interested, schedule a one-on-one training External Link with a classroom technician a few days before the semester begins.
1

Prepare the device(s) you plan on using

Classroom Computer
Wake up the classroom computer by pressing any key on the keyboard then log in with your A# and password. Classroom computers have a variety of commonly used applications and additional software can be requested.
Laptop/Mobile Device
Prepare your laptop (remember to plug it into power if needed) and connect it to the classroom system using the provided HDMI cable or, if available, wirelessly through AirMedia.
Document Camera
Most rooms have a USB document camera connected to the classroom computer. Turn it on and open the document camera application on the desktop of the classroom computer. Some rooms have ceiling document cameras controlled through the classroom touch panel.
Learn more about document cameras.

 
2

Turn on the displays

If you'll be sharing content from a computer or document camera, turn on the display(s) in the room.

  1. Press the power button on the classroom touch panel and lower the projector screen if needed.
  2. On the classroom touch panel, select the content you'd like to share.
 
3

Test audio

If you plan to play audio from a device, use in-room sound reinforcement (audio amplification), or record audio, test it before class by following these steps:

  • Test playing audio from a device: Select the device from the classroom touch panel then test playing it before class. If you don't hear audio, check that the video/audio player and computer audio is not muted and turned up. Also check that volume on the classroom touch panel is not muted and turned up.
  • Test in-room sound reinforcement: Turn on sound reinforcement on the classroom touch panel. Place the microphone 6-8 inches below your mouth and turn it on. Speak a few words into the microphone. Adjust the level as needed on the classroom touch panel to prevent feedback.
  • Test recording audio on the classroom computer: Place the microphone 6-8 inches below your mouth and turn it on. Open Kaltura or Zoom on the classroom computer. Speak a few words into the microphone and see if the audio level in Kaltura or Zoom moves as you speak. If you don't see the level move, refer to the following guides:
  • If connecting to a Zoom meeting, test audio from other participants: Ask another participant in Zoom to say something and see if you can hear them. If you don't hear them, check that the volume on the computer and touch panel are turned up and not muted. If that doesn't do the trick, refer to the following:


Warning
Audio Not Working On The Classroom Computer?

After trying the above steps, restart the computer. A restart will fix most audio issues. If the issue is not resolved after a restart, contact classroom support External Link .

 
4

Prepare any applications you plan on using

Tips & Tricks

  • Visit the Classroom in Advance This will help you feel more comfortable and prepared. Classrooms are often available a few days before a semester begins. You can also schedule a classroom training and we'll have one of our classroom specialists walk you through the room.
  • Test All Audio This is explained above but we feel it's worth mentioning again. Test audio before class. If there are issues with audio on the classroom computer, restart the computer and try it again.
  • Take Advantage of Training Resources The Teach website has a plethora of guides and info for faculty, including guides on teaching strategies, technology tutorials, workshops, and more! Not sure where to start? Try asking our AI Chatbot.
  • Properly Position the Microphone If using a microphone, position it 6-8 inches directly below your mouth for optimal audio quality. Avoid placing the microphone on jewelry, under a tie, or anywhere it may rub against something.
  • Repeat Questions If recording or broadcasting your class, repeat student questions and comments for those viewing the class through Zoom or on the recording. This has the added benefit of helping those in the classroom who may not have heard the original comment/question.