For the 2022 Virtual Sherard Family Reunion we are using two primary platforms: Wonder and Zoom. This article will explain what each of them are, and how we’ll be using them during the Reunion weekend.
Contents:
What is Wonder
Wonder is a relatively new platform, born out of the COVID era, with the goal of creating a virtual workplace experience that’s more like sharing a space with other people in real life. You don’t have to sign up for an account or anything, you join right from within our website where our “Wonder Space” will be embedded. Wonder may work on some mobile devices, but it’s best on a desktop browser.
How to Use Wonder
This video gives a good overview of what it’s like to be inside a Wonder space, and how to use all the controls and tools that are built in. Take a peek to learn all you need to know.
The Wonder space is just open, 24/7, so you can join or leave at any time. It’s also easy to peek in just to see who’s there without immediate pressure to interact (something you definitely can’t do in a Zoom meeting).
Steps for Connecting:
- Go to the page where Wonder is embedded (link will be provided to all who are registered).
- When prompted, allow your browser to access your camera and microphone.
- Join the event!
Hosting Events in Wonder
If you’re thinking about Hosting and Event for the Reunion, using Wonder is the easier way. Because it’s open and each participant controls their own access, there aren’t as many technical hosting responsibilities to worry about. If you choose to share your screen that’s about as techie as it will get.
Using Zoom
Many of us have become familiar with Zoom over the past few years. You can use Zoom straight from your browser with or without an account, or you can download it on any of your devices. During the Reunion, Zoom links for each event will be accessible (to those who are registered) through our Schedule of Events.
Tips for Zoom
The following are a few of our favorite tips for creating a top-quality Zoom presentation and event. If you want to take it to the next level, you should also check out this video with 7 great tips & tricks (the video is also available here as a Twitter thread, for those of us who prefer reading to watching)
Looking Good
- Position your lighting in front of you, not behind you – don’t sit in front of a bright window, avoid direct overhead lighting.
- Have your camera at eye level, that is the most attractive angle (you should not see your ceiling or your floor in your video).
- Look into the camera frequently, it’s equivalent to making eye contact with your audience.
- Refrain from using a ceiling fan if possible, it can be very visually distracting for viewers.
Presenting Well
- If you’re preparing a visual presentation Canva.com is a great resource for creating striking visuals without much need for graphic design skills.
- Make sure there’s an interactive element to your presentation – such as a group discussion with guide questions, or a question and answer session.
- Do a test run, and make sure you have decluttered your background, unless you’re using a virtual or blurred background. Read this article to learn about virtual backgrounds.
- Limit background noise as much as possible. Go to a room where you can control the sounds, and ask anyone else you share space with to be considerate.
During the Event
- Have all the things you think you’ll need around you, including something to drink (talking makes the throat dry), pen and paper to jot things down.
- If two people are trying to speak at the same time, take control and acknowledge the one you want to speak first.
- Recommend that people use the “Raise Hand” feature if you have a large group – it’s helpful because it also keeps people in the order that they’ve raised their hands.
- Pay attention to (or have your technical assistant attend to) the chat. Use it to reinforce main points, provide links to referenced material, and ask or answer questions.
Zoom Hosting Tech Needs
Zoom requires a little bit of technical know-how when it comes to hosting an event. The host (or technical assistant) will be responsible for:
- Admitting participants to the meeting
- Managing audio and video controls as needed (i.e. muting for background noise)
- Moderating chat
- Sharing screen, video and/or audio