Evaluation of Conferencing Technologies For Learning ABSTRACT

Abstract

Conferencing can be a cost-effective way of bringing education to learners who would not otherwise have access to a course because of distance, cost or other inconveniences. It can also be used to augment learning by including guest lectures, interviews with experts, and panel discussions. This paper evaluates four conferencing technologies from the perspective of enhancing the delivery of online courses, in particular by incorporating real time discussions, presentations or seminars. The analysis shows that each of the technologies has at least one advantage over the other three in particular educational scenarios.