What is a virtual classroom?
A virtual classroom is online, and allows students to communicate, view presentations or videos, interact with other students or lecturers, and engage with resources in work groups. Examples of technologies used in a virtual classroom include tools such as Web conferencing, videoconferencing, livestreaming, and Web-based VoIP to provide remote students with the ability to collaborate in real time. Well-known applications include
- Skype
- Adobe Connect
- Zoom
- Big Blue Button
- WebEx
- Mashme.io
- Facebook
Benefits for teaching and learning
- Cost effective
- Learners can attend from their own environment
- Benefits for people who are not confident asking questions in a real-world environment
Challenges
- Learners need a certain level of technical ability
- Time scheduling can be complex for all students to attend the course especially if it is worldwide
