Zoom offers more than video conferencing. Its interactive features can help instructors increase engagement, encourage collaboration, and support active learning in synchronous and hybrid courses.
When paired with thoughtful instructional strategies, these tools can create more dynamic and inclusive learning experiences.
Select a tool below to learn more.
Breakout Rooms allow students to work in small groups before returning to the main session. They are ideal for collaborative activities and active learning.
Common Uses:
- Small-group discussions.
- Case study analysis.
- Team-based learning activities.
- Peer review.
- Problem-solving exercises.
Polling allows instructors to quickly assess understanding, gather opinions, or check for misconceptions during class.
Common Uses:
- Knowledge checks.
- Icebreakers.
- Opinion polls.
- Formative assessment.
- Pre- and post-lesson questions.
Zoom Whiteboard provides a shared collaborative space where students can brainstorm, organize ideas, and work together in real time.
Common Uses:
- Brainstorming.
- Concept mapping.
- Group planning.
- Visual problem solving.
- Collaborative note-taking.
Screen sharing allows instructors and students to present content, while annotation tools enable participants to highlight, draw, and interact directly on shared materials.
Common Uses:
- Reviewing documents.
- Solving problems together.
- Analyzing images or diagrams.
- Providing visual feedback.
Nonverbal feedback tools allow students to participate quickly without interrupting the flow of instruction.
Examples:
- Raise Hand
- Yes/No
- Speed Up/Slow Down
- Thumbs Up
- Emoji reactions
These tools provide instructors with real-time insight into student understanding and engagement.
The meeting chat provides an additional channel for communication during class.
Common Uses:
- Asking questions.
- Sharing resources and links.
- Responding to prompts.
- Facilitating backchannel discussions.
- Collecting responses from students who may be less comfortable speaking aloud.
Zoom Companion can generate meeting summaries and action items, helping students review key concepts and making it easier for instructors to share important takeaways after class.
Recording class sessions allows students to revisit course content, while automatic captions and transcripts improve accessibility and support diverse learning needs.
- Select tools that support your learning objectives rather than using technology for its own sake.
- Incorporate interactive activities every 10–15 minutes during longer class sessions.
- Provide clear instructions before using collaborative tools.
- Allow students time to familiarize themselves with new Zoom features.
- Combine multiple tools (e.g., polls followed by breakout rooms) to create engaging learning experiences.
Zoom's interactive features can transform synchronous class sessions from passive lectures into engaging learning experiences. By intentionally incorporating collaboration, discussion, and formative assessment tools, instructors can promote active participation and create more meaningful opportunities for learning.