Intended Audience: Students
About
Students may encounter microphone issues when participating in online classes or submitting audio or video assignments. These problems are often caused by device or browser settings. Follow the steps below to identify and resolve common microphone issues.
Instruction
Step 1: Check Device Audio Settings
- Ensure that the device volume is turned up and not muted.
- If using a headset, make sure the mute switch (if present) on the cord is turned off.
Step 2: Close Other Applications Using the Microphone
Only one application can use a microphone at a time. If another app is using the microphone, it may prevent sound from working in the desired program.
- Close any other apps that use voice input, such as Google Meet, WhatsApp, or Zoom.
- Reopen the classroom or recording tool and test the microphone again.
Step 3: Adjust Chrome Microphone Permissions
If using the Chrome browser, it may be necessary to update microphone access settings:
- Open the Chrome browser.
- Select the three-dot menu (More) in the top-right corner, then choose Settings.
- Scroll down and select Site Settings under Privacy and security.
- Choose Microphone.
- Ensure that “Ask before accessing” is turned on.
- Remove any existing site permissions by selecting the trash can icon next to the site name.
Note: On school-managed Chromebooks, some permissions may need to be changed by a network administrator.
Step 4: Allow Microphone Access on MacOS (if applicable)
For students using MacOS Mojave or later:
- When prompted by Chrome, select Open preferences.
- In the system settings, go to Microphone.
- Check the box next to Google Chrome to grant permission.
- If prompted, click Quit now to apply the changes.
Step 5: Try a Different Microphone
If the issue continues, students should try selecting another microphone in their device's settings.