In a groundbreaking move that addresses a burgeoning epidemic of snoozing students, Zoom Video Communications unveiled its latest feature this week: the “Are You Still Awake?” reminder.
With e-learning taking the world by storm and many students attending lectures from the comfort of their beds, Zoom has found a recurring issue: students dozing off during online classes. Statistics revealed that 7 out of 10 students admitted to “resting their eyes” during a lecture, with 4 out of those 7 confessing they transitioned from “resting” to “REM sleep.”
“We realized that the ‘Are You Still Watching?’ feature on streaming platforms was onto something. Students, especially those juggling work, school, and binge-watching TV shows, need something similar,” said Zoom spokesperson, Robin Slumber. “Our aim is to enhance online learning engagement, and if that means nudging students awake, so be it.”
Here’s how it works: if a student’s camera detects lowered eyelids, drooping heads, or a slackened jaw for more than three minutes, the software sends a gentle ping to the student. If the student doesn’t respond, the software escalates its measures, with the final step being a blaring alarm coupled with a pop-up message: “Class is still in session! Wake up, or you’ll regret this during finals!”
Initial reactions to the feature have been mixed. Professor Linda Strickland, who teaches Advanced Quantum Physics, noted, “It’s a game changer! I always suspected my students were sleeping, especially when I noticed drool. Now, I can be certain.”
However, college sophomore Jared Lin said, “It’s kinda embarrassing when you’re caught snoozing. I’ve just found more creative ways to nap without getting detected. Challenge accepted, Zoom.”
Zoom’s stock saw a 5% increase following the announcement, while sales of sunglasses mimicking open eyes saw a suspicious surge.
In related news, Zoom has hinted at another upcoming feature: the “Stretch and Hydrate” reminder, which prompts students to take regular breaks and drink water, addressing concerns about sedentary lifestyles and dehydration.
While it remains to be seen how effective this feature will be in the long run, one thing is clear: the world of online education continues to evolve in both entertaining and unpredictable ways.