Sunday, April 16, 2006
Virtual Classroom Software
Virtual or live classroom software has come a long way in the last few years. If you would like to have a look at demonstrations then try
Elluminate
Horizon Wimba
Webex
All of these software allow real-time commmunication between an instructor and participants using two-way audio, text, whiteboard functions, they also allow you to upload powerpoint presentations. Of the three listed here only Webex allows the use of video, this is one-way, instructor to participants.
By definition, these are technically complex software, whilst the demos will run smoothly this is not always the case in a real session. There are lots of variables including
1. Organisational firewalls
2. Baseline computer set ups
3. Networking speeds.
As some-one I know once said:
... It's amazing that they work at all.
My experience with Horizon and Elliminate have been pretty good. When they work they are terrific. When they don't work they can be a pain in the A... Generally tere are less problems when people access from home rather than work ... firewalls and organisational configurations can be a real issue when tring to negotiate access with IT departments.
Elluminate
Horizon Wimba
Webex
All of these software allow real-time commmunication between an instructor and participants using two-way audio, text, whiteboard functions, they also allow you to upload powerpoint presentations. Of the three listed here only Webex allows the use of video, this is one-way, instructor to participants.
By definition, these are technically complex software, whilst the demos will run smoothly this is not always the case in a real session. There are lots of variables including
1. Organisational firewalls
2. Baseline computer set ups
3. Networking speeds.
As some-one I know once said:
... It's amazing that they work at all.
My experience with Horizon and Elliminate have been pretty good. When they work they are terrific. When they don't work they can be a pain in the A... Generally tere are less problems when people access from home rather than work ... firewalls and organisational configurations can be a real issue when tring to negotiate access with IT departments.
# posted by Ian @ 7:41 PM 
