developing a synchronous web seminar application for online learning
Many higher education institutions are searching for cost effective tools for the delivery of a feature rich, synchronous online learning environment. While there are commercially viable web conferencing products available to enhance the online education experience, they tend to be cost prohibitive and are constrained by software and network limitations. Some universities have invested in products such as iLinc, Centra, and Horizon Live, but many academic institutions that would benefit from these products simply cannot afford them.Rowan University is currently developing a synchronous, online web conferencing application that delivers all the features of similar commercial products without the exorbitant price tag. The Rowan Virtual Meeting (RVM) System is built on Macromedia Flash Communication Server technology; a programming platform that is operating system independent, requires very little overhead to run, and has a one-time cost associated with it that is nominal compared to the cost of the available commercial web conferencing products. Using the RVM system requires no more than a computer that has Macromedia Flash Player installed and an Internet connection. Both students and faculty can participate in a synchronous, media driven online experience using audio, video, slide shows, white boards, application sharing, and more. Rowan is currently beta testing the RVM application both on and off campus.This paper will discuss the development, implementation, and the future direction of the Rowan Virtual Meeting system, and how it will be used synergistically with asynchronous applications such as WebCT and Blackboard to provide a more interactive online experience for students.
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