The session is reports two related research studies done over three years that sought to find and evaluate desktop Web conferencing applications to bring people together synchronously. Many possible applications were researched to learn which ones would fit best in given situations (e.g., teaching, meetings). The study recommends various applications based on established criteria (e.g., cost, ease of use).
The session will include an interactive PowerPoint presentation that demonstrates and describes the findings of an investigation in the current state of desktop Web conferencing. It will be "interactive" in that various desktop Web conferencing applications (including Elluminate as the presenter was awarded a Elluminate Research Grant by Elluminate and The Sloan Consortium) will be demonstrated so the attendees can see firsthand the educational capabilities of the applications.
Attendees will learn how desktop Web conferencing can be used (e.g., virtual 1:1 office hours, teaching/training, Webinars). Also, the advantages (e.g., time and cost savings, synchronous teaching and meeting attendance from anywhere, smaller carbon footprint) of desktop Web conferencing will be discussed.
Research findings will be displayed in tabular format to show attendees the features (e.g., interactive whiteboard, screen capture, file sharing) of desktop Web conferencing programs. Various desktop Web conferencing programs will be compared, shown, and discussed. Special emphasis was placed on finding free or inexpensive (less than $50 per month) desktop Web conferencing applications, which will be highlighted in the presentation.
Additionally, attendees will be encouraged to ask questions and contribute their own related experiences throughout the presentation
Presentation objectives include:
1. Demonstrate desktop Web conferencing applications
2. Discuss desktop Web conferencing uses
3. Review features of desktop Web conferencing applications
4. Display and discuss graphical representation of the research results
5. Provide Q/A opportunities throughout presentation (ala Web 2.0 interaction)
The session will discuss using desktop Web conferencing applications (e.g., Skype with VuRoom, Elluminate, WiZiQ) for everyday use. Attendees will learn about the concept and uses of desktop Web conferencing, suggested selection criteria (e.g., cost, intended use), and results of extensive research and hands-on, live testing with possible desktop Web conferencing applications.
