Instructions for session chairs

Zoom co-host for online speakers

Online presenters should arrive in the Zoom room during the preceding break so that the helper can grant them co-host status before the session begins. If an online speaker missed this window and joins late, they will not be able to share their screen or unmute themselves — ask the Zoom co-host (the local helper) to grant them co-host status as soon as they appear in the waiting room.

If you would like to join the Zoom room yourself to manage the session — for example, to keep an eye on the Chat or coordinate Q&A — ask the local helper to make you a co-host as well. The helper will otherwise manage Zoom throughout.

Microphones and room setup

The hybrid setup differs between rooms:

  • Rooms A and B (amphitheatres): the room microphone does not pick up audience voices strongly. When taking questions from the floor, have a helper pass the handheld microphone to the questioner so that online attendees can hear them clearly.
  • Rooms C and D (classrooms): a central microphone picks up the whole room. No action is needed for audience questions — online attendees will hear them automatically.

Managing Q&A

Online attendees will raise their hand in Zoom or post their question in the Chat. Ask the local helper if there are any online questions. Coordinate between in-person and online questioners so neither group is systematically left out.