10) Videoconferencing
What is it?
Take your pick - Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Blackboard Collaborate, Cisco Webex, GoogleMeet, Skype...Videoconferencing is a valuable tool in the arsenal of any instructor. Especially since the advent of the pandemic, instructors have recognized how videoconferencing can be used to advantage. Videoconferencing makes it possible for individual or groups in different locations to connect in real time using devices such as smartphones, tablets and laptops.
Appropriate software installed on devices makes it possible to transmit images to the cameras, thus connecting people in real time. In addition, videoconferences can be recorded, making it possible for learners to review previous lessons and for aspects of lessons to be pre-recorded. Zoom, which is used at the UWI Mona, is an example of videoconferencing technology.
Tips (best practice) for using videoconferencing for instruction:
Being prepared for videoconference and having rules of etiquette will contribute to the success of your videoconferencing session.
| 1. |
Select the most suitable videoconferencing technology for your sessions. |
| 2. |
Ensure that the technology you plan to use is in good working order before your session and check the quality of the video and audio to make sure they are both good. |
| 3. |
Ensure that the lighting in the room you are using is good and that your background is not cluttered or untidy and dress in appropriate colours for recording the session. You should not fade into your background! |
| 4. | Explore the features of the platform (breakout rooms, sharing feature, apps marketplace, accessibility features, etc.) and strategically incorporate them in your sessions. |
Zoom - https://zoom.us
Blackboard Collaborate - https://help.blackboard.com/Learn/Instructor/Ultra/Interact/Blackboard_Collaborate
Google Meet: https://meet.google.com
Webex - https://www.webex.com
Additional Resources
Watch the basics of Videoconferencing tools from the Sigma Omega Kappa Chapter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpBZsG6PzkU
Read: Educational Technology and Mobile Learning. 7 of the Web Conferencing Tools for Teachers - https://www.educatorstechnology.com/2012/07/great-7-web-conferencing-tools-for.html
Read: The importance of Video Conferencing in Education - https://www.appliedglobal.com/the-importance-of-video-conferencing-in-education/
Read: Chandra K. Massner. The Use of Video Conferencing in Higher Education - https://books.google.com.jm/books?hl=en&lr=&id=drdaEAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA75&dq=videoconferencing+in+
education&ots=A08zzFBzHU&sig=TyF_NmDruJrOIhV6Wtq1jC832uY&redir_
esc=y#v=onepage&q=videoconferencing%20in%20education&f=false