Webcam takes Communication to a New Level

• What is the tool?

A Webcam is a video tool that connects to the computer through a USB port. It is basically a video camera tool that allows you to connect with others through the internet through programs such as Skype, Windows Live messenger and Yahoo messenger. The original Webcam that was created in 1991 was limited to the USB port but now there are computers that have this tool inside and are directly used through the Desktop and or laptop screens.

• How can it be used?

Webcam has a variety of uses. The original use of this tool was for video conferencing between companies but now it has evolved into so much more. Webcams now can be used for one on one conversation between two people. Webcams can also be used for Video calling which one example of this was an officer in armed service was able to watch the birth of his child by using the Webcam. Security systems use Webcams to monitor businesses and other areas. One of the more personal uses that I connect with that Webcam allows is the communication through the deaf community. My sister is Deaf and cannot call her friends over the phone without having to go through the steps of calling the interpreting services that will relay what she is signing to the person on the other line. The Webcam that she has enables her to contact her friends from her school and have a face to face conversation with them. I can still see the smile on her face when she showed me her friends on the Webcam that she was talking to. To me, this is one of the best uses for the Webcam. How great is it for the Deaf Community to be able to converse with friends across the internet?

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of this tool?

There are advantages and disadvantages in the Webcam as there is with most technology tools. One of the advantages of the Webcam is that it is inexpensive and when paired with the internet, it creates a more personal connection between people that can span from across town to across the globe. Another advantage of the Webcam is that it allows families to stay connected when they are apart. For example, having family members living across the country that you may only see once or twice a year is hard but with the Webcam, you can keep conversation more personal than they would be if it was just a conversation on the phone. Another example of keeping families connected is when a family member is across seas serving the country. Being deployed for months to years can be very challenging for families but they can stay connected and can “see” each other through the video conversations.
When I was looking for the disadvantages of the Webcam, the results were limited to people feeling like they needed to look their best before calling because they could see the person they were having the conversation with. I do not think this is a disadvantage that would prevent me or anyone else from purchasing a Webcam. One of the other disadvantages that I found was that you need to be aware of who you are talking to at all times to stay away from unwanted company. It was also stated that people can hack into your Webcam and turn them on without you knowing. I am not sure how valid this point is but it caught my eye and I felt as if it had to at least be mentioned. One more disadvantage that I found was that Webcams have to be connected to the PC which can limit where you can use it. Overall, I think that the advantages definitely make the Webcam a very appealing tool to use. I feel as if the disadvantages can be worked around and with any security issues it may or may not have with the appropriate safety measures, this can be a safe and fun tool to have.

• Who is the audience for this tool?

The audience for the Webcam has really evolved from its 1991 beginnings. The first audience was mainly for business video conferencing but it has now become a tool that anyone and everyone can use for personal and business reasons.

• Where can we learn more about this tool?

Webcam Basic Facts

How Webcams work

How to setup your Webcam

How an Assistant Principal uses Webcam to monitor student’s laptop use

• What is your opinion on the usefulness of this tool?

I personally think that the Webcam is a very useful tool in and out of the classroom. Out of the classroom it can be used to keep families in touch and connects people across the globe for many reasons. In the classroom, the Webcam can be used for similar reasons and can be used to connect a classroom from the United States to a classroom across the globe. This will give the students an interactive pen pal system and can help students connect with other students around the globe.
After researching this tool, I think that the Webcam would definitely be an inexpensive investment that takes communication to a new level!

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