Instructions for audience

Tuning in

There are two main ways to follow a DS talk:

• Join the live session. You can participate in the interactive Zoom meeting using a computer or a mobile device (laptop, tablet, or smartphone). If you want to be seen and heard, you’ll need a camera and a microphone. The Zoom meeting link will be posted on the Next talk page.
• Watch the recording later. If you cannot join live, you can watch the recording after the talk on our YouTube channel. Recordings are typically posted shortly after the talk finishes.

Joining the live Zoom talk

Before the talk

• DS talks are hosted via Zoom. A free Zoom account may be required to join, depending on the meeting settings.
• Please visit the Next talk page shortly before the talk begins to find the Zoom meeting link and any joining instructions.
• Please connect at least 5 minutes before the scheduled start time so that any technical issues can be resolved without interrupting the speaker.
• The recommended way to join is using the Zoom desktop or mobile app. Joining from a browser may work, but the app usually provides a more stable experience.
• If you are joining as an individual from a shared space, please use headphones. This helps prevent echo and feedback when you unmute to ask questions.

During the talk

• Keep your microphone muted while the speaker is presenting, unless you are asking a question. This keeps background noise to a minimum. If you forget, the organizers may mute your microphone for you.
• Asking questions. We strongly encourage questions—this helps both the audience and the speaker.
  • The simplest option is to unmute and ask your question verbally when there is a natural pause, or when invited by the moderator.
  • If you prefer not to speak, you can use the Zoom chat. You can either type your question in full, or write something like “??”. The moderator will keep an eye on the chat and interrupt the speaker at an appropriate moment.
• If you are watching together with a group using a single Zoom connection, consider using a simple external or wireless microphone for the room. This can make it easier for the speaker and other attendees to hear questions clearly.