LEARNING ONLINE: AN OVERVIEW OF VIRTUAL CLASSROOMS, WEB CONFERENCING, AND LIVE STREAMING (Part 1 of 4)

During the past several months, we have had to reimagine the way we work, learn, shop, and interact. Organizations have learned the value of going virtual, and many are considering ramping up their online capabilities. With options like virtual classrooms, web conferencing, and live streaming (to name a few), where does one begin? Not to worry, we’ve got you covered! This post is the first in a series on leveraging technology to support synchronous online learning to drive performance in a corporate or academic setting. Throughout the series, we’ll provide an overview of some key technologies and best practices to increase the impact of your virtual event. So, let’s get to it.

Virtual Classroom

A virtual classroom is a digital environment for teaching and learning. Often referred to as a virtual learning environment (VLE), it is an online platform where instructors/facilitators present course material, interact with learners, and manage activities. It provides an environment where participants can engage, discuss content, and access learning resources. Standard tools used in a virtual classroom include video conferencing, online whiteboards, chat, and break-out rooms. Virtual classrooms are suitable for a formal, instructor-led learning environment.

Web Conferencing

Web conferencing (also referred to as video conferencing) is a technology that enables virtual events where two or more participants remotely participate in a meeting. Web conferencing is a helpful tool for collaboration with its two-way communication, multiple screen sharing, and ease of set up. This format is suitable for small groups who need to communicate quickly and efficiently. Webinars and webcasts are another form of web conference and are typically more one-way in their delivery. A webinar is an online presentation that may include the sharing of audio, documents, and applications with attendees. Webinars are useful for lectures or information sessions. Webcasts are typically straight, one-way presentations and may be recorded for future on-demand viewing.

Live Streaming

Live streaming is live video delivered over the internet in real-time, without first being recorded and stored. TV broadcasts, video game streams, and social media are some examples of live stream productions. Live streaming is useful for one-way, push communication with small or large groups. Viewer interaction with the presenter and each other is limited to live chat.

Differences Among Technologies

While there are commonalities among the technologies, there are also significant differences. Depending on the nature of the event, the medium you select will impact its success. Let’s look at two critical considerations to keep in mind when choosing a platform: learner interactivity and participant engagement.  Learner interactivity defines the level of interaction that learners have with the facilitator and each other. The most robust and interactive of all three media is the virtual classroom. Virtual learning platforms have several features that attempt to replicate the type of learning activities that are common in an instructor-led, non-virtual environment. Features like individual and small group activities, opinion polling, break-out groups, and classroom management are core features of virtual classroom software. Web conferencing and live streaming tools do not typically contain these features.

Related to interactivity is participant engagement. We’ve all participated in virtual learning experiences where a “sage on the stage” presents a slide deck comprised of a wall of words, while you die a slow death by PowerPoint. Interactive functionality promotes engagement and enhances the experience for both the learner and the facilitator. Depending on the type of virtual event you are facilitating, web conferencing and live streaming may not provide the level of engagement you and your participants need.

Best Practices

Mastering a few best practices will increase the success of your virtual event. Familiarize yourself with your delivery tool’s functionality and test it before the event. Take a moment to discuss relevant features with your participants. Doing so will let them know how and when they can engage with you and their fellow learners. Noise can be very disruptive to a virtual event. It is good practice to discuss the rules of engagement about noise control and when to use the mute feature. Another useful tip is to have a colleague provide administrative support during the event. While you focus on instruction and facilitation, your colleague manages the chat board, helps administrate activities, and provides support as required.

As we emerge from months of self-isolation and social distancing, virtual technologies will play an increasing role in the way we train, develop, and engage with one other. Stay tuned for subsequent articles in this series that help you select the right tools to bring your virtual learning to life.

Tags:  designing learning experiences  facilitating learning  live streaming  online learning  virtual classrooms  web conferencing