2.1.3 Commercial versus Open Virtual Classrooms
Synchronous learning on a consistent basis can result in increased engagement of learners throughout the course. Synchronous learning also boosts the online presence of the instructor- a valuable characteristic that increases the students' level of confidence in the course and with the instructor.
There are dozens of synchronous applications available that are either commercial or open source. Here is a link to an exhaustive listing of these resources along with some of the benefits and disadvantages for each:
Comparison_of_web_conferencing_software
My preference is for the Adobe Connect, and I was pleased to see it at the top of the list (ok, the list is alphabetized). There are many more features with Adobe Connect than are present with other platforms, but the price tag may be too high for the user: $45/month on a yearly contract or $55/month, paid monthly. (Note- I found a really handy comparison app in PC magazine: Compare Videoconferencing Platforms )
Nevertheless, I am afraid that my budget won't allow for me to purchase this at this time. There are up to 9 hosts available at this plan rate for up to 25 online participants each.
At this time, I am reconsidering BigBlueButton and all it offers for the price of $0.00 and some space on my hard drive.
Open source software would be the preferance when funding is limited.
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