Using Video Conferencing to Revolutionize eLearning

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”  Dr. Seuss, I Can Read With My Eyes Shut!

Learning has been an integral part of everyone’s growth. Some are prodigies, blessed with skills at an early stage, while others hone themselves with constant practice. The development of a person stops when they stop learning. Lack of time, geographical restrictions, different priorities, and age are common reasons people think twice before enrolling in a course. The recent pandemic has further deepened the divide between privilege and circumstances and forced some to drop out. However, when a door closes, another indeed opens. The adoption of online learning has been the silver lining for the education industry. Using the means of video conferencing, educators have the ability to improve the quality of education by sharing audio, video, any combination of media, or lessons in real-time or via cloud storage. 

How can video conferencing help in eLearning and education?

Application wise, video conferencing can be helpful in 3 scenarios:

1. on-the-job training (orientation or skill-building training provided at the workplace)
2. classroom teaching (regular daytime or evening classes)
3. organized, internal training (online seminars or courses)

In terms of flexibility, the users can opt to attend the class live or watch a class recording. Moreover, multimedia support allows the transfer of files, images, or documents quickly. The course can be organized using a web-based application. Participants attend the meetings by clicking the link for the session or via VoIP enable desktop software installed in the system. In the case of the web-based application, the class can be accessed via any internet-enabled device, whereas for installed software, you would need cross-platform development services.

Real-time video conferencing that imitates a face-to-face interaction between the teacher and the student is termed synchronous conferencing. On the other hand, when the student is watching a pre-recorded class and posting questions or submitting assignments on a portal is termed Asynchronous conferencing. 

Benefits of synchronous conferencing

• Saves time and cost – no need for traveling and conveyances
• Complete flexibility on attendee volume
• Complete online – no need for pen and paper
• Built-in evaluation tools  
• Easier to organize 
• Reaches a wider audience 
• Near similar to face-to-face interactions 

Disadvantages 

• Requires preliminary training 
• May require troubleshooting
• Heavy reliance on devices 
• Lesser interaction 

Ways video conferencing can streamline eLearning Reduce training costs

Producing learning content, whether online or in the classroom, takes time. Because the number of users in eLearning splits the production expenses, the return on investment grows with each course access. There’s also the cost of the facility, utilities, and teacher salaries to think about. Using one teacher with video conferencing to hold a lesson allows students to be reached in schools, at remote places, and home at a considerably reduced cost.

Increase Productivity

Because eLearning is not constrained by time or distance, it is easier to manage the impact of training on production by scheduling training sessions during downtime. In addition, because individuals are being pushed to accomplish more with less, eLearning is an excellent approach to provide them with the tools and skills they need to perform better.

Create Standardized Process

Instructors may use eLearning to build a defined approach for delivering curriculum and ensure consistency. It can also shorten delivery times by allowing instructors to mix eLearning lessons with guided sessions.

Real-time access to information

Students need to travel to specific classrooms to attend them in real-life classes. Courses in eLearning may be accessible at any time and from any location. WebRTC technology allows teachers to share notes, reading materials, or any other files in sync with conducting the class. This implies that students may use a PC or a mobile device to access information, complete assignments, and publish their findings on their own time.

Students must be in attendance or acquire notes from other students when classes are held on-site for a set amount of time. They must enroll in another course if they require a refresher course. Students can access online information and revisit it as needed through eLearning and study at their speed and on their own time.

Wrapping Up

By using eLearning powered with video conferencing technology, geographical boundaries have vanished and opened the gates of education for those hampered by circumstances. With a decent internet connection and a supported device, anyone can enroll for a class of their choice and level up their skills. If you are someone looking to develop an eLearning software enabled with video conferencing, check out E-learning Software.