Microsoft Teams – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Article Summary

Microsoft Teams is ICC’s primary collaboration and communication platform within Microsoft 365. This article provides answers to common questions to help faculty and staff quickly understand and use Microsoft Teams.


Audience

  • Faculty
  • Staff
  • New or occasional Microsoft Teams users

Environment

  • Microsoft 365
  • Microsoft Teams (Desktop App, Web, Mobile)

What is Microsoft Teams?

Microsoft Teams is a collaboration platform where ICC employees can chat, hold meetings, share files, and work together in organized spaces called Teams and Channels.


How do I access Microsoft Teams?

You can access Microsoft Teams in the following ways:

  • Desktop application (recommended)
  • Web browser at https://teams.microsoft.com
  • ICC mail portal at https://mail.icc.edu

Do I need to install Microsoft Teams?

No. Teams works in a web browser. However, the desktop application provides better performance, more reliable notifications, and the best overall meeting experience.


How do I join a Teams meeting?

You can join a meeting by:

  • Clicking the meeting link in your Outlook calendar invite
  • Selecting the meeting from the Teams Calendar
  • Joining directly from a Team channel if the meeting was scheduled there

How do I create a Team?

If Team creation is enabled for your account:

  1. Open Microsoft Teams
  2. Select Join or Create a Team
  3. Choose Create Team

If you do not see this option, contact Technology Services to request a Team.


What is the difference between a Team and a Channel?

  • A Team is a shared workspace for a group, such as a department, class, or project.
  • Channels are focused areas within a Team that organize conversations, files, and meetings by topic.

Where are files stored in Microsoft Teams?

  • Files shared in Team channels are stored in SharePoint
  • Files shared in chat are stored in the sender’s OneDrive

File access is based on Team or chat membership.


Can external users join a Teams meeting?

Yes. Guests outside ICC can join Teams meetings using the meeting link. Access to files and channels may be limited based on ICC security policies.


Can I use Microsoft Teams for my class?

Yes. Teams can be used for:

  • Class meetings
  • File sharing
  • Discussions
  • Group collaboration

For help with instructional use or Canvas integration, contact the Teaching & Learning Excellence team.


How do I share files in Teams?

You can share files by:

  • Uploading files to a channel’s Files tab
  • Attaching files from OneDrive
  • Sharing documents directly in chats or channel posts

How do I schedule office hours or virtual meetings?

Use one of the following methods:

  • Teams Calendar → New Meeting
  • Schedule a meeting directly from Outlook

Both options automatically sync with Teams.


Can Teams meetings be recorded?

Yes. If recording is enabled, meetings can be recorded and stored in OneDrive or SharePoint. Access is limited to meeting participants based on permissions.


Is Microsoft Teams difficult to learn?

Teams is generally intuitive. New users may benefit from short tutorials or instructor-led training sessions.


How do I get help with Microsoft Teams?

  • Review ICC’s Microsoft Teams training materials
  • Attend Microsoft 365 training sessions
  • Contact Technology Services for technical support

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