Zoom is a versatile, easy-to-use video conferencing app that allows people to meet via audio and video, chat via text, and share information remotely. It also allows you to record the audio and video of meetings, and share those recordings later.

Tufts is now providing Zoom accounts to all faculty and students, at the “Pro” level

You can use Zoom with a laptop, computer, or mobile device that has speakers, a mic, and a webcam. We  recommend using it with headphones with a built-in mic. Learn more here: What equipment do I need for using Zoom?

It helps with communication if all the participants in a Zoom meeting show their video feed of themselves, from their webcam. Your professor may want you to keep your video on. However in Zoom sessions with many attendees the audio signal may be clearer if video is turned off.  If you're not sure, ask your professor. Learn how to turn your video on and off on here: Zoom In-Meeting Controls

Zoom has an easy-to-use "virtual background" feature. See: How can I set a "virtual background" in my Zoom video?

You can open up a note-taking app and position it alongside the Zoom window, so you can see both apps and click back and forth between them. See: How can I take notes when using Zoom?

In addition to seeing and talking with your professor and fellow students in Zoom, you can also chat via text in a side chat window. Learn more here: How to use Zoom chat

To raise your hand in a Zoom meeting, you can physically raise or gently wave your hand so it can be seen on your video feed.

Also, if your professor has enabled it, there is a set of "Nonverbal Feedback" buttons which includes "Raise Hand". To access these, click the "Participants" button on the bottom toolbar. Learn more here: Zoom Nonverbal Feedback Buttons

See: Zoom In-Meeting Controls to learn about other controls and settings you can access when you're in a Zoom meeting.