When I was first introduced to web conferences I was not sure if I would like them or not. After participating in a few of them I am starting to see the advantages of using web conferencing. As with any technology there can be little glitches in the system and a few minor issues can pop up at times, but they can be very beneficial and convenient. Take an online class for example. All of the assignments and information is sent using Blackboard or another type of software. There is no interaction with the professors or TA’s except through email. For some this can take some getting used to. Having a web conference can help with this transition and also help the class feel more personal. If students have questions, it can be easier to clear these up through a web conference rather than use email. A web conference is almost the same as sitting in the same room with another person. Dialogue can continue in a timely matter until all parties are satisfied with what is taking place. If using email, this same process may take hours or days before items are settled. So in my opinion let’s keep having them!
