Videoconferencing for e-learning

Generally speaking videoconferencing is the ability to communicate to either individuals or groups through a combination of video and audio via your computer.

In the world of distance education, in order to have a real time lecture, videoconferencing would be used.

According to an article I read there is technically a difference between Web conferencing and video conferencing, however the terms are often used interchangeably.

Web Conferencing - The service allows information to be shared simultaneously, across geographically dispersed locations in nearly real-time. Applications for web conferencing include meetings, training events, lectures, or short presentations from any computer.  Examples of technology, Elluminate Live!  and Adobe Connect.   (Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Web_conferencing)

Webinar  - one way web conference, content is delivered but through audio and visual but there is no interaction.  There is less equipment needed on the receiving end, you don’t even need a web cam.

Video chat – often related to more personal communication than business communication, video chat is the capability to speak with someone online while using a webcam for video.  You can see and talk to someone, examples of technology include Skype and Facetime.  Once a week I meet via Skype with my MDDE Mobile Learning group (group 2) to discuss our progress.