Does my computer require a camera?

Question

This is for Jake M.

I've been playing since I was about 17. I'm 60 now. Would my lessons with you be video lessons? Would I have to have a camera on my computer monitor and use something like Skype? I don't understand any of that. I am in the process of also checking out a teacher at Schmitt Music in Duluth, MN.

I do not want to give Wyzant any credit card information until all my questions are answered and I've decided to go ahead with the lessons.

Please coach me through the camera business and video business and since Jake M. responded to my email I would like to hear back from him.

Tim K

Answer 1

If you and your potential teacher live in different geographical locations, how could you communicate if you are not going to be able to see and hear each other, using the technologies of a microphone and a video camera? I know it can be daunting, and it's something you might have to try, before proceeding further,.

Answer 2

You need to get what is called a Webcam. It is a small camera that you attach to the top of your monitor. You can then have a video lesson. I teach all my students via video lessons. Don’t use Skype – it’s terrible. I teach via Zoom or Facebook. Zoom is the easiest. You just create a Zoom account – takes one minute, and then whenever a lesson is scheduled, your teacher sends you an email with a link for you to click on. You click on it and that’s it – you’re connected to your teacher, and the lesson can proceed. The teacher can see and hear you, and you can see and hear the teacher.

Ramon Amira