Remote Teaching FAQ

What software should I use for remote lectures?

We recommend that you use Zoom. Zoom is an online meeting platform that allows interactivity between the lecturer and the students. It can also create recordings for archives, but that is secondary to the live interaction. Because of this interactivity it can be used to conduct a full lecture.

What equipment can I use to teach remotely?

The best solution for remote teaching with Zoom, when a blackboard/whiteboard alternative is necessary, is to use a tablet and stylus.

1. Tablet. We have verified that Zoom works well with iPads. Microsoft Surface and other tablets are likely to work, but we have not tested these. A recommended minimal model is the Apple iPad 10.2 32 GB model. More advanced/recent versions of iPad (Pro and Air) can also be used.
2. Stylus. To be able to use the tablet as a whiteboard/blackboard, a stylus is essential; it needs to be compatible with the tablet. The Apple iPad 10.2 uses the first generation Apple Pencil. An alternative to the Apple Pencil that is compatible with the iPad 10.2 is the Logitech Crayon.
3. Tablet cover. This is less crucial, but we recommend that you get a cover to protect the tablet. The Apple "Smart" cover is likely to be the safest option, but third-party covers are adequate. We recommend a cover with a holder for the Apple Pencil, which can get lost easily.

An alternative solution is to use a camera pointing at a blackboard/whiteboard or paper.

4. USB webcam. We recommend the Logitech C920S webcam. Note that we had initially linked to Amazon, but they're out and it looks like there is price gouging going on. As of 3/16 Bestbuy has it available for shipping, as does Logitech.
5. Tripod. A compatible tripod is the Magnus PV-3430, which can point downward for a document camera effect, or at a board.
6. Whiteboard/blackboard. If you would like to teach from your home, and prefer to use a blackboard/whiteboard, we recommend a whiteboard, as it works better with cameras. Any whiteboard you can find online is adequate.

If you want to use a phone mounted on a tripod to record video, you can use a phone mount such as the Square Jellyfish in conjunction with the tripod.

You could also use the built-in camera in your laptop, pointing at a whiteboard, but we do not recommend this solution.

Obtaining equipment

Due to the rapid transition to remote teaching and supply limitations at the NYU Bookstore, our ability to provide equipment immediately is limited. We will distribute currently available equipment based on teaching priorities and the responses to the survey. you were asked to complete. As it is critical that students are provided with the best possible learning experience under the circumstances, if we are unable to provide you with what you need, we would like to ask you to purchase the equipment individually as soon as possible, to avoid any delays.  The details will be communicated by email. 

The iPads are available from the Apple store, or for a bit less from retailers like BestBuy and Amazon.
The Logitech C920S webcam can be ordered from Amazon; it is also available at BestBuy locations in Manhattan.

Can I use Panopto or Zoom in my physical classroom space?

Yes, but we recommend that you prepare to teach entirely from home and test the hardware and software to ensure that everything goes smoothly in case remote teaching from home becomes the safest or only option in the future.

Where can I find a guide or relevant information about remote teaching?

We recommend reviewing a few resources, including:

In addition, you may find the following useful:

Where can I find information about Zoom recording?

The NYU Classes: Zoom FAQs and the Room Instructions have information on Zoom recording. Also see the FAS Office of Educational Technology.

Who do I contact with questions?

For questions about hardware or software, please write helpdesk@cims.nyu.edu. For other questions, please consult your department.