Adobe Connect

I see the value in Adobe Connect as a place to meet, share information, and create classes.  One downfall that I see is that it is flash based and as a result will not properly run on Apple based products without an additional application.  This limits its use in many ways.  The typical Saskatchewan classroom has Ipads in at its disposal.  If you were to create a blended classroom or a flipped classroom you would be restricted by the devices that you have available.  For example, in my classroom I have 8 Ipads and 5 computers.  Adobe Connect would work on the computers but not on the Ipads which is more than half of the technology that I have available and at my disposal. 

Adobe has many great features.  It allows VoIP calls, chatting, and web camera.  It also allows sharing of pictures, computer screen PowerPoints, etc.  It is easy to use and very user friendly.  Ask questions by using Pods Poll or QandA for group or individuals

Share weblinks Breakout rooms and assign groups - content to main meeting

Hosts - manage Adobe connect sessions

Presenters - share some of the host priveledges - can share documents, presentations, computer screen

Participants - communicate with each other, with permission can speak and present

"Web Conferencing is one of the most powerful and practical uses of Internet technology ever created to optimize communications between employees, customers, prospects and suppliers. It combines the power of a live meeting with the cost-effectiveness of a conference call." (Coyner - http://www.isquare.com/webconf.cfm)

Coyner has several very good examples of how to improve web conferencing that range from keeping your presentation short to making sure you test multiple times if everything will work.

I didn't realize that there were so many different platforms to use for web conferencing.  I am only familiar with about 4:  Adobe Connect, Blackboard, Skype, and Google Hangouts.