Tag Archives: Distance Education

Make Anytime Classroom-time

In the “college world” the instructor of the class has a significant influence on the success of their students. If a student has an instructor that is passionate about the course material and their students, the class may change their complete outlook on their education and career path. However, that same course taught by a less interested instructor may have no such effect. Professors have a significant impact on not only how material is taught, but on their students’ educational experience. Communicating with students in different ways (and often) will keep them updated, on task, and interested.

Offering various ways of communication with your students is one of the best ways to create a better learning environment. Particularly with online classes (but definitely not limited to!), Elluminate, GoToMeeting, and Skype offer great alternatives when it is simply not an option to meet as a class or in person. Both Elluminate and GoToMeeting are web conferencing programs that allow users to broadcast a live presentation over the internet. With solely the use of an internet connection, speakers, and microphone, instructors are able to host live meetings and share the content on their screen with their students and viewers. Skype is a tool that is free to everyone that allows users to video-chat live. With a webcam and speakers, users are able to talk live to anyone, whether it be their friend next door or their friend in Australia.

The opportunities instructors are given with the use of these programs are endless. Even with an online course, maintaining communication throughout the semester can be a very simple and effective task. If you would like assistance using any of these programs or would simply like to learn more, please do not hesitate to contact us!  You might also want to check out our Technology for Events webpage for additional ways technology can make a positive impact on your class.