What new technology would you like to know about?? Come to T&L 2.0, ask your questions, and together we can explore!
On October 20, a small group experimented in the CTL with webcams and the use of google videochat and Skype. The purpose was to see what the steps are to using webcams and one of these services to invite virtual guest speakers into the Classroom. We found that the process was pretty easy once the software was set up (also pretty easy). This means that anywhere where there is Internet and a $30 webcam, a virtual guest speaker can appear live in the classroom. This opens up a range of possibilities that are exciting to contemplate! For more info, read this:
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Regarding videoconferencing…there are products like the Polycom CX5000 (formerly Microsoft Roundtable)appliance that sits in the middle of the conference table and shows a 360 degree view the room. The software detects who’s speaking and displays a zoomed-in view of that person in a small floating window. It works remarkably well – in your case, the visiting lecturer can see and interact with the entire class.