Cameras Optional? Examining Student Camera Use from a Learner-Centered Perspective

In this paper, we offer a holistic look at undergraduate and graduate students’ experiences with using cameras for synchronous online learning via Zoom. Analysis of the data using the American Psychological Association’s learner-centered psychological principles revealed that social, cognitive, metacognitive, motivational, affective, and individual difference factors influenced student camera use and the level of influence of each of these factors varied from student to student, time to time, and space to space within a class. Findings suggest that there is a multifaceted, dynamic relationship between the student, video conferencing technology, and instructor’s pedagogical actions that shapes camera use. Based on the findings, we offer suggestions for online synchronous course design, teaching, and research.