Realtime Captioning FAQs for Faculty & Staff

Does Realtime Captioning require the use of technology, such as mobile phones or laptops, in my classroom?

Yes, Realtime Captioning provides a translation of spoken English into written English text that is displayed on a laptop, tablet, or cell phone. 

If a student has an accommodation for captioning and/or the use of a laptop, tablet, or cell phone for disability-related reasons, please allow the student to use their device. It is also important to allow the student to sit where they choose, as the student may need to sit near the front as an accommodation for their disability. 

Can a student with a Realtime Captioning accommodation participate in Zoom group work/breakout rooms?

Yes, the student is able to participate in group work. When a class is held in person, a captioner is present and may sit with the group to hear the speakers clearly. Remote classes are handled similarly, with the captioner present in the same breakout room/group component as the student. 

A student may also let the Communication Services Supervisor know if they wish to omit captioning from any portion of their course. In the event a student elects to omit captioning from a component of their course, the instructor will be notified by the Communication Services Supervisor that the student does not need captioning for that specific portion.

We encourage students to discuss their accommodations with their instructors, and they may reach out to you with what works best for them in your class.

How will I know if a Realtime Captioner is present in my Zoom Meeting?

The captioner will be named “Captioner” and their first name in the participant list.

How do I assign a captioner to a Zoom breakout room?

When assigning a captioner to the student during breakout sessions, look for the captioner as a participant listed as “Captioner” and their first name. Please ensure the captioner is in the same breakout room as the student receiving the accommodation.

How do I communicate with a captioner during a Zoom lecture?

You can communicate with the captioner in the Zoom chat. The captioner will be listed in the participant list as “Captioner” and their first name. 

The captioners are captioning and monitoring multiple screens, so they will respond as they are able.