Compressed video also will allow the instructor to connect with external resources. The instructor can invite guest speakers in to the classroom without the speaker having to travel to the site. Compressed video also allows for the use of diverse media ranging from still photos to PowerPoint presentations. By using different media, the instructor helps to keep the students active and involved in the class by making lectures visually interesting. The main disadvantage with compressed video stems from the use of television monitors to put the teacher in the classroom.
Students tend to become passive observers, instead of active learners.
How It Works Compressed video takes analog video signal and converts it to a digital video signal using a computer called a codec. The new digital signal is then compressed by the computer and transmitted down high-speed digital telephone lines to the distant site. Once the signal arrives at the distant site, the process is reversed. For conferences with more than one distant site, the system is voice activated, automatically switches to the appropriate sound source. The College of Nursing and Health Professions established the Interactive Television Distance Learning Center at Arkansas State University in 1992.