How do I register?
You may register from the registration website or call Registration Services at 205-348-3000.
How do I get the Zoom link to access my class?
The Zoom link will be sent in your confirmation email. Only those registered for the class will be let into the online class from the waiting room. Please do NOT share the link with anyone. Anyone who wants to join the class but is not on the roster will need to register or call the OLLI office at 205-348-6482 for questions.
What if I deleted the email with the link?
Call the OLLI office at 205-348-6482 and we will email you the link.
How do I connect to the class?
In the email is a Zoom link that has a meeting ID and the password embedded. You simply click on the link and it will take you to the class session via Zoom. A Zoom account is not required. You will be in a virtual waiting room until the cohost admits you to the class.
Is a Zoom account required?
You do not have to create a Zoom account to attend a class. However, the first time you access Zoom, you will need to go through a setup with your device. If you are using alaptop or desktop, the first time you click on a class link, it will download a free and secure “exe” file. If you are using a tablet or smartphone, you will want to download the free and secure Zoom app from your App Store prior to clicking on the link in the email.
Getting Started (Windows or Mac)
The University of Alabama has an Enterprise account with Zoom. OLLI staff schedule the classes on the Enterprise account with password and waiting room features enabled. OLLI requires registration for each class, and we email those registered with the class link.
What device can be used to access OLLI online courses?
You may use a laptop or desktop (Windows or Mac), tablet, or smartphone (iPhone or Android).
What equipment is essential?
Anyone registered for the class can attend using their laptop or desktop (Windows or Mac), tablet, or smartphone (iPhone or Android). All you need is your device and either cellular data or a connection to an internet network, such as Wi-Fi.
The following equipment will enhance your experience but is not necessary:
- Web camera: A camera will increase your connection with your instructor and your peers by allowing you to see each other face-to-face. If you do not have access to a web camera, you will still be able to see the instructor and others.
*If you do not have a web camera, the OLLI office has a limited supply that can be checked out.
- Headset with a microphone: This will let you hear and be heard more clearly. This does not need to be fancy equipment; it can be the same as the headphones you might use with your phone.
- Charger: Charging your device during class will ensure that you do not have an unexpected power outage interrupting your learning. Or, make sure your device has a full charge before joining the class.
Where can I get help with Zoom?
OLLI regularly offers Zoom Basics Training. These are 1- hour sessions led by OLLI members covering the basics of connecting your device and understanding the OLLI “online classroom.” Register for Zoom Basic Training online or call Registration Services at 205-348-3000. If no class is offered, call the OLLI office at 205-348-6482.
What should I do to prepare for class?
We suggest:
- Wear a shirt!
- Have your computer on and the email with the link readily available to join the class a few minutes before it begins.
- Gather the materials you need for class before class starts, maybe water and a pen and paper.
- If you live with people, let them know you won’t be available during your class.
- If you live with pets, put them outside/in a different room if they like to “talk.”
- If you live alone, maybe turn off TVs or music to lessen distractions.
I want to be able to interact with others and the instructor in these online classes. Does Zoom allow for this?
Zoom does allow you to interact with others and the instructor during class. You are able to use the "chat" feature or unmute to ask questions and talk with peers or the instructor. You can also turn on your webcam so others can see your face, and your instructor can encourage you to do activities, ask questions, or contribute to the conversation.
I am trying to use Zoom but can't get my audio to work. How can I fix this?
The first option is to “leave” the meeting, go back to the link, and start again. This alone will sometimes fix the issue. Call the OLLI office for further assistance.
Step-by-step instructions to test your audio, written by Zoom.
How do I join a class with phone audio if my computer audio doesn't work?
When you join the meeting, the pop-up window will ask you to choose one of the audio conference options. Your two options, at the top of the pop-up, will be:
- Computer Audio (automatically selected, but you can change this), or
- Phone Call (you call a zoom telephone number – you will need to request this from OLLI, along with the Meeting ID and password)
We suggest that if your computer audio doesn't work you can call in with your phone.
If you’ve already joined the meeting with Computer Audio, and then realized the audio wasn’t connecting, you need to “Leave Computer Audio” by clicking the ^ next to “Start Video” in the navigation bar.
Will online classes be recorded?
Many courses are recorded and available during that term only. If the instructor has given permission to record, the course will be recorded and can make it available.
How do I get a recording?
After the class has occurred, call the OLLI office or email olli@ua.edu to request the link to the course. Please include the title and date of the course.
How do both my spouse and I join the same Zoom class?
If you and your spouse are enrolled in the same Zoom class, then you may join the class on only one device. If each of you connects with your own device, be sure there is plenty of distance so that the sound doesn’t carry. If you are in two separate rooms then you should be fine. Audio feedback can be quite bad if the screens can “hear” what’s going on with each other.
Can I change my "view" in Zoom?
Yes, you can! Zoom video layouts include the following:
- Full-Screen Mode allows you to see the entire Zoom screen (without all the controls or other programs on your computer being visible). To exit Full Screen, use the Esc key on your keyboard. Learn more about how to change the video layout. to learn more.
- Active Speaker is the default layout in Zoom. It will switch to the large video window between those that are speaking. Whoever speaks will be featured in the largest window.
- Do you want to make it, so you always see the instructor even when someone else asks a question? Learn how to use the Pin Video feature.
- Gallery View allows you to see thumbnail displays of everyone in the class, arranged in a grid. Depending on your computer, you can display up to 49 attendees on a single screen. If there are more attendees, you will use the arrow key to scroll through each page of attendees. Learn more about Gallery View.
Additional information An OLLI Members Guide: How to Join a Zoom Meeting
Is your question not on this list? Email us at olli@ua.edu or call 205-348-6482.