Background Expression

Description

An easy warmer using Zoom virtual backgrounds (with some non-Zoom options in Variations below).

Why we like it

Uses creative and personalized images that require participants to try out platform tools. This activity, when planned in advance, requires participant awareness of their entire presence on screen including background, camera angle, and non-verbal movement.

Requirements

Learners will need the following:
-Zoom desktop app or mobile app
-A green screen may be required for older or lower-power computer processors
-Camera and video capabilities

Process

1. Before the session, participants create and upload a virtual background.
2. Participants explain their virtual background choice and/or meaning in their warmer.

Daisy chain options

Incorporate virtual background design into presentation and facilitation skills by creating content slides as virtual backgrounds. These slide-based backgrounds can replace screen sharing features and keep presenters’ videos larger on audience’s screens (as opposed to becoming a thumbnail when screen sharing). 

Variations

a) Participants without virtual background capabilities can discuss their live backgrounds (location, items behind them, etc.).
b) Participants unable to participate due to tech or location reasons can share files or screen share images they would choose as their virtual background.
c) Background images can be shared with others for later use.
d) Moving backgrounds (.mp4 file upload) create other opportunities but also possible distractions.
e) Prezi Video allows live broadcasting with images and text on screen (with paid accounts and desktop app).  These aren’t virtual backgrounds as images will be floating on the screen.

External links

Zoom Virtual Backgrounds
Pixabay: Free images with very few restrictions
Smithsonian Open Access: Millions of free images legal to use and share
Shutterstock: Free virtual background images (with free account)

Share using the icons below or direct link to this activity: https://knowmium.com/tools/2020/6/2/background-expression