Videoconference: Virtual Face-to-Face

***What is a Videoconference?***
Videoconference or videoteleconference is a set of interactive telecommuncication technologies which allow two or more locations to interact via two way videoa and audio transmisssions simultaneously.Videoconferencing is different from videophone calls beacuse it is meant to serve a conference rather than individuals
Video Conferencing is a wonderful tool for the classroom.

***How it can be used?***
It provides students with the opportunity to learn by participating in a 2-way communcation platform. Furthermore, teachers and lecturers from all over the world can be brought to classes in remote or otherwise isolated places. Students from diverse communities and backgrounds can come together to learn about one another Students are able to communciate, analyze, explore, and share information and ideas with each other. Through "virtual field trips" can bring opportunies to children to visit another part of the world to speak with others, visit a zoo, or a museum

***Audience***
VideoConferencing can be used in the classroom as we discusssed above to help enhance a students knowledge of the world around them. It can be used in meeting around the world it connects as if you were having a face-to-face.

***Pros and Cons***
P: If you are having an international business meeting, it will cut down on travel costs and help with reducing waste that occurs over long flights.
P:Connects people with busy schedules.
C: Technology sometimes can be unrelieable
C: It might be hard for lower income schools to be able to afford the technology needed for videoconferening.

***What do I think?***
I think this is a wonderful tool especially for children who do not have alot of resources. It allows them to step out into the real world around them, while keeping them safe in their comfront zones. The vitual field trip is a great example of this.

***Want to Learn more?***
Try these sites for more great information about videoconference systems.
Video Conferencing Information
Web Videoconferences for Beginners