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Even though the Weekend Workshops are conducted via the Zoom platform,
we do not use the video function. This is for several reasons:
Comfort - video creates distraction through comparison and self-consciousness about visual presentation and background; audio-only provides more safety and privacy.
Equality - even when using video some people choose to turn their camera off; audio-only keeps everyone in the same format throughout the call.
Access - an audio connection is more available to more people in more places, is easier to use and requires far less data usage.
Environment - lower bandwidth/ file size/ cloud storage = much lower carbon footprint.
Focus - video distracts us and tempts us to try to read body language and facial cues (affective empathy); audio-only keeps our attention on deep listening and “cognitive empathy”.
Clarity - video uses a lot of bandwidth which sometimes compromises audio quality; audio-only provides more clarity of voice, less signal distortion, and fewer tech issues.
Health - research actually shows audio-only (camera-optional) to be better for mental health (see article linked below).
BBC Article - To read "The Case for Turning Off Your Zoom Camera", click here.
I offered my first classes in person, with 4-40 people sitting in a circle. Then I experimented with phone classes (conference calls) and found they worked just as well for learning and connection - and even had some advantages.
Then the pandemic came along and got us all doing Zoom calls, but before that it was mostly audio-only, and I've been conducting my classes by conference call for many years. I think you'll appreciate the many benefits of the audio-only experience.
For these calls I recommend you situate yourself in a quiet place where you can be comfortable for up to four hours at a time (don't worry, we take breaks every hour!) Not having to look at a screen means you can sit just about anywhere, in any position, and focus on listening and participating.
You will use your device to mute and unmute yourself, to"raise your hand", and to type or read something in the chat box. Otherwise you will be either listening to the dialogue, asking questions, or speaking your piece. Check out the complete Call Guidelines here.
I can hear you now!