What is Online Conferencing?


Online conferencing is a type of synchronous learning whereby learners and their teacher interact in real time, and when used effectively can form part of a successful blended learning model.

This form of online learning affords learners the flexibility of accessing and engaging with learning material from anywhere, but is restrictive in terms of time commitment (Kyofuna, 2014). As such, it is important that teachers consider the use of this method very carefully. Teachers and learners can use an online conferencing tool within their existing learning platform or use a third party tool.

It is important that online conferencing is used in a targeted manner for learning opportunities that truly benefit from this kind of interaction.

Online Conferencing Tools

Google Meet

Google Meet is a video meeting tool for schools that use Google Workspace for Education. This video shows how Google Meet can be used by teachers to support online teaching and for screensharing.

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is the hub for collaboration in Office 365. It has a video conference feature that can be useful to support blended learning.

Cisco Webex

Webex is an online and cross platform solution for video conferencing, online meetings and screensharing.

Zoom

Zoom is a digital tool that facilitates online meetings, classes and video conferencing.