As classes continue to take place online, some professors require students to have their cameras on.
A PowerPoint presentation by the Academic Senate for California Community College said 23% of students report they are required to have their cameras on during lectures.
The presentation claims cameras during Zoom calls can be beneficial for class productivity, focus and interaction.
On the other hand, the presentation also acknowledges several disadvantages of cameras during lectures in the presentation, ranging from self-confidence and privacy concerns to distraction issues from having all of the students on the screen at once.
Citrus student Adrian Mercury Austin said in a text interview his experience with cameras during remote lectures is tolerable but not preferable.
“I tolerate having my camera on, but I don’t like it,” Austin said.
Austin is enrolled in multiple classes that require cameras to be on.
Austin also recalled a previous class that, despite not requiring cameras or microphones, was still engaging.
“It made me and some of my classmates excited for class and kind of want to pay attention because it was fun and relaxed instead of the prim and proper ‘Sit up straight, wear a fancy shirt, no eating, drinking, or breathing, and act like we’re still on campus’ attitude some teachers have,” Austin said.
Although some students feel more comfortable with their cameras off, most professors and counselors continue to use their cameras.
“I choose to have my camera on in counseling appointments and class time because it gives me an opportunity to establish a sense of connection with students,” counselor Raquel Gutierrez said in an email interview.
Gutierrez said she acknowledges and respects students who are uncomfortable with cameras and suggests a Zoom background to keep her surroundings hidden.
The legalities of camera use during Zoom classes are unclear. The ASCCC PowerPoint presentation said there is no clear indication against cameras.
Chief Information Services Officer Bob Hughes said in an email interview the regulation on Zoom cameras is unclear.
“I don’t know of any law that would prohibit faculty from requiring students to turn on their cameras,” Hughes said in an email interview.
Hughes also said that college courses are voluntary, unlike elementary, middle, and high school classes. As one enrolls in a college class, he or she is agreeing to the requirements set by the professor.
Students should contact professors about camera requirements in their classes before the term begins to be aware of the expectations and determine if the class will work for them.
