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Frequently
Asked Questions
What is videoconferencing?
Videoconferencing is a real-time, interactive connection between two or
more distant sites.
What
equipment is needed to videoconference?
Basically, you need a unit capable of transmitting video, a method of
transmission (nowadays, many schools are using the Internet) and a
viewing monitor. A videoconferencing desktop unit that compresses and
decompresses video (known as a ‘codec’) provides the highest quality
connection. However, some districts have had good videoconference
experiences with a less expensive “eyeball camera” connected to a
computer and projected onto a screen.
Can I
videoconference anywhere in the world?
You
can videoconference with any distant site that has videoconference
equipment and transmission capability. However, some faraway places
might be problematic because of the time difference.
Can my class
videoconference with a museum or educational center at any time?
Yes. You just need to schedule an appointment to meet the distant site
via videoconferencing. Museums and others will schedule around a
school’s bell schedule. When you’re making plans, be sure to verify the
distant site’s time zone.
How do I
find videoconference programs that will enrich my content area?
If
your district is a member of Nassau BOCES Videoconference Services,
you can search the online catalog.
How do I
know if a videoconference program is a good one?
Services member can learn about good programs by reading
Videoconference News, the Nassau BOCES newsletter. The
newsletter will report the results from our online Evaluations.
The CILC website also posts ratings by schools nationwide.
Are museums
and educational sites willing to tailor programs?
Educational sites aim to please. They will tailor a program according
to your grade level and curriculum objectives at no extra fee. Many
sites will also create original programs for you for an additional fee.
Is it okay
if my class skips the pre-videoconference activities?
No. The purpose of pre-videoconference activities is to prepare
students for the videoconference. If students aren’t properly prepared,
they are less likely to interact with and ask questions of the expert.
You don’t want to reduce the videoconference experience to a “TV
watching” experience.
Is it all
right to put two or more classes together for a videoconference program?
Perhaps, the biggest benefit of videoconferencing is that it gives
students the opportunity to have a face-to-face conversation with an
expert. If a large group (more than one class) connects with an expert,
only a small percentage of that group will have a chance to interact.
If the students aren’t interacting, the experience quickly becomes one
of watching television—not videoconferencing.
Where can I
learn more about educational uses of videoconferencing?
The following sites have a wealth of background information on education
videoconferencing:
• Distance Learning Home • Online Learning • Studywiz • Videoconferencing • CIT Home • OCC • |
