Video Conferencing in the CBE
Video conferencing is a real time, live, two way interactive means of communicating with people in different geographic locations. Students and teachers can engage in "face to face" conversations without leaving their classrooms.
Videoconferencing is a tool that supports constructivist, inquiry and project based learning. Students can be involved right from the planning stage through to the actual event, including contacting others with invitations to participate.
Innovate Online has several good articles on videoconferencing. You will need to complete the free registration with Innovate Online to view the following articles.
Videoconferencing K-12: The State of the Art by Scott Merrick. Scott Merrick examines the benefits and potential uses of IVC in the K-12 classroom. (October/November 2005 Volume 2, Issue 1)
Innovative Teaching: Sharing Expertise through Videoconferencing by Michael Lück and Gerard Michael Laurence. Lück and Laurence describe their 2003 study that formally evaluated the educational benefits of videoconferencing.
This story from CBS news shows how video conferencing is being used for virtual field trips in K-12 schools. It's a good video that could be used to introduce teachers and administrators to this technology. (3:32 min.)
Professional Learning Opportunities
Throughout the year a number of webinars will be offered that can assist teachers and administrators with planning for a video conference in their schools. Please check back here for upcoming dates and times. Also feel free to discuss videoconferencing opportunities with your Learning Innovation liaison; they can help get the conversation started and put you in touch with further support.
If you are looking to use a Portable Video Conferencing Unit check here.
