How Video Conferencing Can Support Education
Video conferencing technology is all the rage among corporations. Recently educational facilities have begun taking advantage of video conferencing technology to support learning and education. Video conferencing equipment can help facilitate instruction and provide distant learners with a host of resources and access to content providers, teachers, librarians and more.
More and more teachers are adopting video conferencing as a method of enhanced communication and instruction. Many California schools are using video conferencing to connect with one another and produce networks carrying large volumes of video and text data to educational facilities, teachers and students. Other people that benefit from video conferencing technology include librarians who can use video conferencing to develop strategies, provide resources and improve the quality of their service and delivery.
Video conferencing And Learning
Video conferencing facilitates learning by allowing remote or distant learners to meet regardless of their location. Students can take classes at multiple universities. In essence classes that are not available at one location may be available at another through video conferencing. Video conferencing can also benefit non traditional students who are not able to attend classes during normal hours.
Video conferencing can also be used as a career or employee training tool. Many colleges are now collaborating with local businesses to offer students certification and business training. Expert subject matter delivered from individuals in the field is easily delivered to students using this new technology. Student can also take advantage of mentoring services offered by companies in distant locations using video conferencing technology. The possibilities are virtually endless.
Filed under Communications by on Dec 2nd, 2010. Comment.
Webcams are video capture devices connected to computers or computer networks, often using a USB port or, if they connect to networks, via ethernet or Wi-Fi.Their most popular use is for video telephony, permitting a computer to act as a videophone or video conferencing station. Other popular uses, which include the recording of video files or even still-images, are accessible via numerous software programs, applications and devices.They are well known for their low manufacturing costs and flexibility.
First employed in 1991, a webcam called the CoffeeCam, was pointed at the Trojan room coffee pot in the computer science department of Cambridge University. The camera was finally switched off on August 22, 2001. The final image captured by the camera can still be viewed at its homepage.The coffee machine was repaired for free by Krup
The oldest webcam, as the technology came to be known, still operating is FogCam at San Francisco State University, which has been running continuously since 1994.One of the most widely reported-on webcam sites was JenniCam, started in 1996, which allowed Internet users to constantly observe the life of its namesake, somewhat like reality TV series Big Brother, launched three years later. More recently, the website Justin.tv has shown a continuous video and audio stream from a mobile camera mounted on the head of the site’s star.
Recently,[when?] Apple and other computer hardware manufactures began building webcams directly into laptop and desktop screens, thus eliminating the need to use an external USB or Firewire webcam.
Truly the invention of webcam and evolution of technology makes the world easy to connect. The capabilities of webcam in instant messaging, text chat, live video communication has now reached billions of people around the world. Webcams improved our traditional video conferencing in the internet. There are new features discovered such as automatic lighting control, real-time enhancements, face tracking were automatic makes the increasing popularity of webcams.
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Filed under Video Conferencing Facilities by on Dec 6th, 2010. Comment.
Modern technology convergence equips ordinary people with the basics to engage in video conferencing. Users can utilize the two most popular email and live chat providers Yahoo and MSN to set up simple video conferencing their softwares. People can call, talk and watch each other – regardless of location – and communicate in real time.
This can simply be point to point (between two people) or multipoint (more than two at different location) communication. Hardware requirements are simple such as a computer, web cam, microphone, and a broadband connection to participate in videoconference. People can participate in natural and normal conversations – they see and hear each other.
What started out as a simple enhancement to the popular Instant Messenger and yahoo Messenger chat software is now becoming an indispensable communication tool for the corporate world as well due the enormous cost savings. People can now attend to business activities and meetings with clients and business associates in the comfort of their office or home, eliminating the requirement to go to another place simply to discuss an important matter. It also removes the anonymity of the basic telephone conversation since it enables face-to-face meetings regardless of distance. The cost of setting up a video conferencing is definitely a lot less than the costs of travel and hotel accommodations.
Videoconferencing is undeniably an easier way to conduct meetings and interviews and give lectures and address employees located in other parts of the country or the globe.
Some big corporations, including educational and medical institutions have set up their own conference rooms with dedicated video conference terminals to enhance their communication capabilities using dedicated hardware and equipment fully equipped with control systems, document viewers, overhead cameras, vision switchers and slide viewers complete with compressor and decompressor interface.
Dedicated hardware makes it easier to transmit large files of information and data, regardless of type, over the net.
Video conferencing is proven to be a reliable and an excellent method of communication. It allows you to connect not only with other people but also with other companies. For the true e-commerce entrepreneur, it allows you to run your business in your locality and connect with suppliers located on another state or another part of the world with simplicity. It completely eliminates miscommunication since you talk face-to-face, and nuances of speech and facial expressions are visible.
Video conferencing guarantees a bright future for your business because it keeps you up to date on any critical information that may affect your business on a real-time basis. It is affordable and simple that not having the capability may be compared to committing suicide, business-wise.
Filed under Conferencing by on Dec 9th, 2010. Comment.
www.cisco.com Video conferencing in education is breaking barriers with Cisco Telepresence. Create a collaborative learning experience for students by using technology to enhance school learning environment and improve learning outcomes. Okay class. Our special guest is here. Ellen Page! CLASSROOM: Hi Ellen! KID: Were going on a field trip to China! ELLEN: Wow, when I was a kid we would just go to the farm. No seriously, where are you guys going? SCHOOL KIDS IN CHINA: Ni Hao!!! SCHOOL KIDS IN CANADA: Ni Hao!! ANNCR: The new classroom. See it. Live it. Share it. On the Human Network. Cisco
Filed under Tech by on Dec 11th, 2010. Comment.
Web conference software is not complicated to use although it does perform a variety of complicated tasks. In fact, if you want to take the easiest route, you can use a web-based software that doesn’t even require that you install anything. Businesses with many employees will probably find it more convenient to install their own software, but they probably have an IT department to take care of the details. Once you have access to web conference software, what can you do with it?
Video Conferencing
Web conference software allows you to communicate by video. This communication can be two-way, or you can split your screen for multi-user videos. For example, your screen can show six different people on it at once who are all able to take part in the discussion. The software also allow you to switch control of the video and audio display among participants so that everyone has a chance to be seen and heard, no matter how many are in attendance.
Desktop Sharing
This feature of web conference software allows everyone in your conference to see what is on your desktop and you can switch desktops so everyone can see what is on another person’s. This is helpful if you are trying to explain something that is on the internet, as whatever your browser shows on your monitor will show up on everyone else’s monitor too. Any files that you open on your desktop or applications that you run can also be seen in real time by conference attendees, which makes this a great training tool.
Document Sharing
You can also transfer files among conference participants. Send text files, images, PDF files, and videos. You can distribute a summary of the conference or notes for participants to follow. Attendees can also distribute files among themselves.
Collaboration
This is one of the most useful features of web conferencing software. With this, you or any participant can immediately update a file while it is open on your desktop. Everyone in the conference sees the same file and has the ability to alter it and everyone sees the changes in real time. This is particularly useful when two people are working together on a project. It allows more than one computer to put the project together at the same time so it speeds up productivity.
Whiteboard
The whiteboard is another common and useful feature of web conference software. It allows you to make notations on files as you give your presentation. It works in a similar way as a whiteboard on a wall or an overhead projector. The software also has the capability of taking screenshots and saving your notes as image files. This feature allows your presentations to be more dynamic and spontaneous.
As you can see, there are many productive things you can do with web conference software. It’s no wonder it has become so popular in recent years. If you haven’t used it yet, you probably will at some point. It isn’t only for businesses anymore; this software has many other applications such as use in online classes and virtual seminars.
Filed under Conferencing Equipment by on Dec 12th, 2010. Comment.
In these trying times of down turn and bursting of the dotcom bubble across the world, cost cutting seems to be the buzz word. Video conferencing is one such way to cut cost, lower the incidence of carbon emissions, increase productivity and expedite the marketing of goods/services. It has occupied a greater importance in the way business establishments communicate among themselves. And this phenomenon has spread like wild fire across the nook and corner of the globe.
Such conferencing has silently and secretly made its inroads to the desktops of almost the entire entourage of mid-level managers and front line employees. That is the reason perhaps why it was so successful in c-level conference rooms world-wide. In a way conducting such video conferencing means business in modern economy.
In order to augment the revenue for your sales/service, you will definitely require video conferencing equipment. These equipments play the role of a medium through which all the participants of the said conference connect to each other. You don’t have to waste your time thinking how this is achieved by business entities who adapt his means of conferencing.
Because there exists many time tested ways which facilitates you to make the selection from a plethora of options. For example, in order to decide about the quantity and quality of these equipments too can give greater importance to your budgeted spending. And yes, don’t forget to give due diligence to the name of the manufacturer of such equipments.
Make clear demarcation so far as the number of persons you want to connect is concerned. Exercise utmost care in coming to a conclusion on number of user groups that you are desirous to connect. Don’t think twice before taking some professional help from those personnel who have the expected expertise in them.
And why not do some homework regarding this on your own in World Wide Web, aka the internet? You are at your liberty to join any forum that you want to join. Make some inquiries from like minded people in the forum. Take suggestions from them and try to corroborate them with actual facts and figure. After having completed with your home work take extra precaution not to sacrifice quality at the cost of quantity.
You can find Video conferencing systems in different cost category and in various forms. Think of your purpose of such a conference and the amount you are willing to give. And ultimately depending on these norms take your pick. Largely these systems can be categorized into four categories namely, desktop conferencing, video conferencing system, tele-presence conferencing system and integrated conference room system. Also you can download software’s like Skype and Yahoo Messenger if you are not willing to shell out a single penny.
Filed under Communications by on Dec 12th, 2010. Comment.
When considering conferencing options it is important to know what main areas are available. Audio web video conferencing are the primary options, each with their own highpoints and drawbacks. In most cases a company can easily determine which conferencing option they will primarily use and then from there can look for conferencing services that is most affordable.
Audio Conferencing
Audio conferencing is the most basic conference service available. Audio conferencing is a very simple set up requiring only a telephone and a toll free number. Some of the benefits with choosing a strictly audio conferencing service is that is the cheapest of the conferencing services. Pricing is based on a flat rate and depending on the service provider, some extras are included free with the basic package. Some of the drawbacks with audio conferencing are due to its relatively basic set up; the options may not completely meet the needs of a business. For larger audio conferences it will not be possible for everyone to provide verbal feedback. Out of the three services, audio web video conferencing, audio is the most basic.
Web Conferencing
If audio is too basic for a company’s needs, web conferencing may be a more acceptable solution. The level of involvement in a web conference can range from viewing simple text via a central server, or even with the addition of audio provider real time voice as well. Web conferencing is a little more costly depending on how much interaction the software allows. Also with web conferencing every participant will need to be online, which means everyone would need a computer and access to the Internet. If the conference is audio web video conferencing, it will have to be a high-speed connection. While web conferencing is usually more expensive, the fact that infinite amounts of data can be transferred and immediately reviewed easily out-weighs that.
Video Conferencing
Occasionally a company will decide to roll up audio web video conferencing all into one package. Most commonly this service is referred to as simply video conferencing. Because video conferencing usually combines audio web and video utilizing an online connection, it can most accurately replicate the feel of being in the same room with someone. Video conferencing is of course one of the most expensive options, but with a little planning doesn’t have to be out of range.
Either way you go there are tons of audio web video conferencing options that can meet your needs and budget requirements.
Filed under Communications by on Dec 15th, 2010. Comment.
Nowadays, video conferencing is becoming more and more popular. With this technology, it helps businesses to save time and money. This explains why more businesses are adopting this technology and use it in their daily operations.
In this article, we will find out 5 prime examples of how video conferencing is used in business.
1. Sales meeting. As video conferencing allows many people to log on at the same time and interact with one another, many businesses are using it to conduct their sales meetings. The sales manager can be the host and employees will update him or her with their sales targets. If they have any problem, they can also raise it during the meeting and solutions can be brainstormed by everyone. Moreover, it can also help to reduce the sales cycle too!
2. Training of employees. Video conferencing can be used to conduct workshops, brainstorming sessions and consultations to train employees to become more proficient in their area of expertise. It makes training quick and convenient and any problem can be addressed immediately by the trainer. Another big benefit of using this technology for training is that employees can access recorded training session videos and make sure that they can fully understand their job scopes.
3. Product demonstrations. Sales people can use this technology to demonstrate products to their prospects and existing clients. Live conferencing can create a stronger bond with prospects and clients which will further boost the company sales revenue.
4. Interacting with employees. It is a very good channel for upper management to interact with employees. This is very useful especially if you have employees situated in other countries or offices. This cut travelling time and save cost on fuel and air tickets.
5. Conducting interviews. You can use video conferencing to interview prospective employees from all over the country and this will significantly increase your chance of hiring the right candidates. Moreover, it also helps you to save time and cost on travelling too.
These are just 5 uses of video conferencing by companies to conduct business. This technology is definitely here to stay. If you have not tried it, you should give it a go. I believe that you will be impressed by the benefits video conferencing brings to your business. You do not need to spend a lot of money to get started. By getting the most basic equipments, you can enjoy the benefits right away.
Filed under Communications by on Dec 18th, 2010. Comment.







