Videoconferencing + teleconferencing
My group needs to participate in a videoconference or a teleconference.
The mLab (ETC 226) can be a good venue for videoconferencing for groups of 2-10 people. Our high-quality camera and microphone can connect with people at a remote site, in real time. Self-supporting groups can reserve the space at any time; if you’ll need assistance connecting, mLab staff are generally available 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday. Note that the mLab is primarily for academic uses.
The mLab is also set up to host voice-only teleconference calls using a speakerphone. See here for more information on conference phones and conference lines.
I need to join a videoconference that someone else is hosting.
If you are the only person joining the videoconference from Reed’s campus, IT staff can help you connect using your own computer, from the privacy of your own office.
Which videoconferencing platform should I use?
Many platforms are available for videoconferencing; the best solution will depend on your needs. Some platforms we support are listed below; if these do not fit your needs, contact us and we can discuss other options.
All of our recommended platforms support video, audio, and text chat. Options include:
- Google Meet is available through Reed’s Google Apps for Education. Call participants do not need Google accounts to join the videoconference, and all Reed community members can set up Meet conferences from their user accounts.
- Zoom is a commonly-used videoconferencing platform that supports up to 50 participants for meetings of up to 40 minutes in length with a free account. As part of our response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Reed is setting up Zoom Pro accounts for faculty; contact its@reed.edu for details.
I want to participate in a videoconference somewhere else on campus.
We have videoconferencing kits available for checkout for faculty and staff to use from their own desks or in classrooms. ITS staff are available to support equipment use for academic purposes in classrooms and faculty offices; A/V staff are also available to train users to self-support for videoconferencing.
If you are interested in exploring how you might use videoconferencing in the mLab or in your office, or if you have questions about videoconference options at Reed, contact us at mlab@reed.edu .