Microsoft Teams - Student Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Overview

Microsoft Teams is a digital hub your instructors may use for online classes, meetings, group work, assignments, and communication. Not all courses use Teams the same way so your instructor will let you know how Teams will be used in your course.

How do I access Microsoft Teams?

You can access Teams via:

  • mail.icc.edu (Microsoft 365 apps launcher)
  • The Teams desktop app (recommended)
  • The web app at https://teams.microsoft.com
  • The Teams mobile app (iOS/Android)

Sign-in: Use your ICC email address and password (the same credentials as your ICC email). If prompted, complete multi-factor authentication (MFA).

Where do I find my classes?

Select the Teams icon in the left navigation to view your Class Teams. Click a class tile to access Posts, Files, Assignments, and Calendar.

Don’t see your class?

  • The instructor may not have activated it yet.

  • It can take up to 24 hours after enrollment changes for Teams membership to update.

  • Check your Outlook Calendar for meeting invites.

  • If it still doesn’t appear, contact your instructor or Technology Services.

How do I join a class meeting?

You can join through any of the following:

  • Outlook calendar invitation (Join link)
  • The Teams Calendar
  • A meeting link posted in the Class Team (Posts or Assignments)
  • Mobile app push notification (if enabled)

Tip: Join 5–10 minutes early to test audio/video.

What can I do in a Class Team?

  • Participate in discussions (Posts)
  • Join live or recorded meetings
  • Access class files and resources
  • View and turn in assignments
  • Collaborate with classmates in channels and files

How do I chat with my instructor or classmates?

  • Use Chat for private or small-group messages.
  • Use Posts in the class channel for class-wide discussions and announcements.

Follow your instructor’s communication guidelines for response times and where to post questions.

How do I turn in assignments?

  1. Open your Class Team
  2. Select Assignments
  3. Open the assignment to view instructions, due date, and points
  4. Add work (upload files or create directly in Teams)
  5. Select Turn In

Late submissions are controlled by the instructor’s settings.

Where are files stored?

  • Files shared in Teams channels are stored in SharePoint.
  • Files shared in Chat are stored in OneDrive (shared with participants).
  • You can access your files via Teams, OneDrive, or SharePoint.

How do I share files?

  • In a channel: Go to Posts → Attach (paperclip) → upload or choose from OneDrive.
  • In Chat: Select Attach → upload or choose OneDrive.
  • In Assignments: Use Add work.

Best practice: Use the class channel for materials meant for everyone; use Chat for private or group work.

Can I use Teams on my phone?

Yes. The mobile app lets you join meetings, chat, and access files on the go. Enable notifications to avoid missing updates. For best meeting quality and screen sharing, the desktop app is recommended.

Troubleshooting

I can’t see my class Team

  • Wait up to 24 hours after registration or instructor activation.
  • Sign out and back in to Teams.
  • Try the desktop app instead of the browser.
  • Clear browser cache or try a different browser (Edge/Chrome recommended).
  • Still missing? Contact your instructor or Technology Services.

No audio or microphone not working

  • In the meeting, open More (⋯) → Settings → Device settings.
  • Select the correct Microphone and Speaker.
  • Disconnect and reconnect headphones.
  • Quit and relaunch the Teams desktop app.

Camera not working

  • Check Device settings → Camera selection.
  • Close other apps that may be using the camera (e.g., Zoom, web conferencing tools).
  • Toggle camera Off → On during the meeting.

The meeting is full or I can’t join

  • Ensure you’re signed in with your ICC account in Teams and the browser.
  • Use the Join link from Outlook or the Class Team.

Missed a meeting

  • Check the Class Team → Posts or Files → Recordings (if your instructor shared a recording).
  • Verify with your instructor if recordings are provided.

Accessibility

Microsoft Teams supports:

  • Live captions in meetings
  • Transcripts (if enabled by the organizer)
  • Keyboard navigation and screen readers
  • Immersive Reader for Posts and Assignments

For accommodations, contact Access Services and inform your instructor. If you need help enabling accessibility features, contact Technology Services.

Best Practices for Students

  • Use the desktop app for the best performance.
  • Keep your Teams and OS updated.
  • Mute when not speaking; use Raise Hand to participate.
  • Organize files in OneDrive and Teams folders.
  • Check Notifications and Assignments daily.

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