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Videoconference
A videoconference is a two-way interactive event where video and audio is simultaneously transmitted to individuals at sites in different locations. A videoconference can be 'point to point' which connects just two sites together, or it can be 'multipoint' where individuals located at many sites can see and hear those at all of the other sites. These virtual classrooms and meetings can take place across the campus or across the world. Videoconferencing is not limited to a single technology, as bridging services allow ISDN, ATM, and/or IP to join together for a single event. IP Videoconferencing (VOIP) requires the use of Internet and a computer which has been specifically set-up for videoconferencing. Satellite delivery is also a form of videoconferencing, but it is not two-way video, in that the program is downlinked to participating locations. Additional Videoconferencing Information
- H.323 Videoconferencing
- H.323 is a standard for supporting audio/video conferencing over IP (Internet Protocol). This section contains links to forums and discussion lists, technical information and support issues.
- Videoconference Directories
- When you need to locate a videoconference site to connect with, or if you wish to list your site as a place for others to connect to, these directories identify public videoconference rooms for rent or use.
Web Conference
Webconferencing is the combination of using a web browser for visuals and an audioconference for discussion. Students and instructors can show and receive graphics, draw, type, demonstrate web sites, share documents and use web chat. Basic technology needs are a computer, a web browser, an Internet connection, and a telephone. To participate in a web conference, simply dial in to the telephone conference call, and point browser to the pre-assigned web site. Only those who log-in can share the content and communicate with each other. All program visuals are available to all participants at the same time. Individual can communicate, collaborate, and receive real-time feedback. Participants connect from offices, homes, meeting rooms or anywhere else with access to the Internet and a phone line.--From Instructional Communications Systems. |
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Online
Online courses, also often referred to as web courses, are usually defined as courses which are offered over the Internet. Basic technology needs are a computer, a web browser and an Internet connection. Program and course providers will identify the specific technology needs of a specific course (e.g., some courses may require the use of a certain browser version or type of computer). Some, but not all, online courses are offered at 'anytime and anyplace'. This means individual is not limited to traditional semester start and end dates and you can take the course from any location (home, office, etc.) with the proper connections. Other courses may have scheduled meeting times where students and/or instrutors are online at the same time. Many terms are used when referring to online distance education programs and courses. These include: 'e-learning', 'web-based training (WBT)' or 'Internet courses'. Also there are products (called Course Management Systems or CMS) used to design an online course. Example brand names of such products include 'WebCT', 'Blackboard' and 'Desire2Learn'. |
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Print
Print-based courses or 'correspondence courses' are perhaps the oldest delivery method for distance education courses, having been available to students and learners for well over 100 years. Print courses are usually delivered via the mail, but some also have email or fax options to enhance communication between student and instructor. The more traditional print courses are provided entirely on paper. Although obviously not 'print', correspondence courses can also be offered via tape, CD, or DVD. These differ from online courses because the need for an Internet connection is eliminated. |
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Audioconference
Audio is often thought of as the most important part of any kind of teleconference. Audioconferencing is sometimes considered a conference call, but with many optional features available and an almost limitless number of individuals being able to simultaneously participate in the same event. Basic technology needs is simply a telephone. Audioconferencing is an easy, economical way to bring many people together to meet, learn, and teach. |
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Blended Learning
Blending Learning can be described as the use of more than one delivery method in a single course. For example, the instructor of an online course may wish to have students meet once a week via an audioconference to discuss the last assignment together; or a videoconference can be combined with multiple media: text and graphics can be transmitted with a document camera; computer graphics, web sites, and videotapes can be transmitted and viewed by all students. Blending different technologies together in one course often provides a more dynamic learning environment and allows for different options and expressions of educational materials |
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