Abstract
Software allowing real-time online video connectivity is rapidly evolving. The ability to connect students, staff, and guest speakers instantaneously carries great benefits for the online distance education classroom. This evaluation report compares four software applications at opposite ends of the cost spectrum: DimDim, Elluminate VCS, TokBox, and Vyew. Their benefits and shortcomings are contrasted, and efficient educational scenarios for them are suggested.
Highlights
Since the original review of videoconferencing software in this evaluation series (Craven, Keppy, & Baggaley, 2002), tools for online conferencing have evolved dramatically
New ones have taken their place and have been reviewed under integrated software headings in the series, including a new product, Elluminate VCS, which focuses on high-quality video and platform interoperability with dedicated videoconferencing equipment
This updated product is compared in the current report with three freeware applications: DimDim, TokBox, and Vyew
Summary
Since the original review of videoconferencing software in this evaluation series (Craven, Keppy, & Baggaley, 2002), tools for online conferencing have evolved dramatically. Web tools integration – ability to work with other communication applications; some products have a built-in feature for sending email, instant text messages, attachment files, and voicemail, but fulfill these functions solely within their own environment; other products can be used in conjunction with external email applications on a convenient, integrated basis (1 = hard to use, 3 = moderate ease of use, and 5 = very easy to use).
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