Video Conferencing: CU-SeeME for Visitations
CU-SeeMe is an inexpensive Internet based desktop video conferencing tool. Unlike other commercial video conferencing tools -- which require lots of coats for satellite equipment, user fees, dedicated conference room charge etc. -- CU-SeeMe is available from Cornell University with no charge. CU-SeeMe provides synchronous communications using audio, video, and text. It supports one-to-one communication, group conferences, and video broadcast to a large audience (e.g. Telepathology conference).
Here is one example of using CU-SeeMe in educational purpose. DileM (Distance Independent Learning in English Methods) is a project for preservice teachers on the English education methods course in the University of Michigan. Instead of 15-20 preservice teachers' visiting the actual classroom, they set up a video at a Middles school at the Southfields and set the other video at the multimedia classroom in the University of Michigan (see diagram). Then, preservice teachers can interview sixth grade English teacher in the remote place in the real time and observe children's small group activities (see pictures).
Even though the advantages of CU-SeeMe such as reducing need for travel and capability of video & audio communications, this technology still requires technical equipment and staffs.
Click here for the detailed information regarding technical aspects of CU-SeeMe.
