Direct messages as a thread, not separate

[sandymillin]

I run training sessions using Zoom meetings.

I used to ask trainees to send direct messages to answer some questions to test their knowledge and I would see all their answers as part of the main chat thread.

Recently direct messages now all pop out into separate conversations, meaning I need to click on each one separately to see answers. I've therefore had to ask trainees not to use direct messages as with 10 trainees it means I can no longer just quickly glance to see whether everyone has the correct answer without them being able to copy answers from others.

Is it possible to toggle this option on and off so I can choose whether to have a single thread with all messages in the chat or separate threads for each conversation?

[ExpertswhoJohn · Accepted solution]

hi @sandymillin ,

Welcome to the forum

You can not change the chat screen layout. It was changed to improve the private message experience, but has made it harder when lots of people are messaging one person. The Zoom engineering team are aware of this and is looking at a solution.
I expect an update to chat soon.
all the best

John

[dd2]

Is there any movement on this? As another teacher, Zoom chat is now pretty well useless. Looking for an alternative for teachers as Zoom is now so focused on becoming everything to every business that teaching has become a non-starter with Zoom. As soon as i find an alternative, I'm gone!

[sandymillin]

Thank you for confirming this

[GoSchool22]

My team of 6 instructors and I are also very frustrated with this new "feature" and really wish it wouldn't have changed.  Before, like the original post shared, it was a great method to test participants and have their answers in one thread.  Now, it's impossible to use this method given the number of participants we have in each meeting.  Hoping for a solution soon.