Distance Education at Bilkent
Like many universities around the globe, we at Bilkent have decided to continue our programmes using remote instruction tools, namely video conferencing and distance education tools.
We are fortunate to have a distance education platform, Moodle, already in use, and we will continue to provide user support and encourage innovative teaching using the tools it provides. Now we also have Zoom, a tool for meeting face-to-face in virtual classrooms. While nothing is a complete substitute for real-world classroom contact, Zoom provides the nearest thing to it
Zoom as a “Remote Instruction” Tool
Bilkent University chose Zoom as the tool to continue teaching in these hard times. Zoom is a commercial video conferencing tool which can be used on all hardware platforms; i.e. Windows, Linux, Android tablets, iPhones, iPads, smart phones.
What do I need to use Zoom (requirements)?
To host and participate in zoom meetings, you will need:
- a laptop, desktop, smart phone or tablet (processor min. 1 GHz);
- a web cam;
- headphones (or speakers);
- a reasonably high bandwidth Internet connection (4G, ADSL will do);
- Zoom app/software installed on your device;
- a Zoom account at https://zoom.us/
Here is our detailed information about system requirements.
How does it work?
Bilkent zoom video classes will start and end at the times scheduled on the STARS system. Students and instructors will need a “Zoom Meeting ID” to join/host each class. The meeting ID for each class is listed in your SRS/BUSEL/AIRS course schedule.
The meeting will be a video conference meeting where the participants will see and hear the instructor; in real time. Two way interaction; i.e. asking questions or commenting or sharing work will be possible.