As distance learning begins for HSU and many local K-12 schools, Internet capacity (bandwidth) here and in other communities in the county may be overwhelmed. As a result, your internet may be slow. If that happens, here are some steps you can take to improve your internet connection:

• Leave video off when unneeded. Don’t require your students to be on video if possible.

• Only screen share as long as necessary.

• Use collaborative documents (such as Google Docs) instead of screen sharing if it makes sense.

• Mute your audio when not speaking.

• Call in to meetings on your phone if internet is severely limited.

• Limit optional high-bandwidth activities by others at your location (streaming videos/music, playing online games, downloading large files, etc.).

• Consider using the Zoom app in “Driving Mode” (automatically disables your video and mutes you).

Additionally, Zoom had been experiencing some issues and outages across the country. While these have been resolved, it’s possible Zoom may have future issues. If you do experience Zoom problems, check the status.   

If Zoom is ever completely down when you need to teach or host a meeting, we recommend using Google Meet as an alternative only if absolutely necessary. You can access it in G Suite by clicking the grid of nine dots  in the upper right-hand corner or at meet.google.com. 

The Center for Teaching & Learning (CTL) is also working on how-to videos in the event we need to make broad use of Google Meet. In the meantime, here is a video tutorial on Google Meet. 

 Please contact the CTL at ctl@humboldt.edu with any instructional continuity questions, and Information Technology Services at help@humboldt.edu with technology needs and questions.