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Running HEAD:  Introducing the Virtual			1Introducing the Virtual ClassroomMichele KempEDU656Dr. Nicole RunyonAugust 8, 2011EDU656                                                                                 August 2011
Introducing the Virtual ClassroomA HybridLearningEnvironmentwww.ThemeArt.com
Old School – Instructor-led Classroom
What is theVirtual Classroom?Synchronous computer-mediated learning environment withFacilities for visualizationInstructor and participant audioParticipant response via polling & chat, etc.Commonly used virtual classroom toolsAdobe Acrobat Connect ProfessionalElluminateLive MeetingWeb Ex
New School – A Hybrid Environment
What is the NewVirtual Classroom?Instructor-led synchronous computer-mediated learning environments with participants online, at the same time, in different locationsHybrid of synchronous and asynchronous   e-learningAlso referred to asSynchronous e-learning
Remote instructor trainingNew Virtual Classroom Technology OptionsReal-time instructor lead virtual classroom       sessions are often recorded and can be viewed   in an asynchronous mode via the computer.Provide access for two-way communication Participant interaction of various types –  audio, text, chat, pollingProjection of visuals – still, animated, multi-media, slide shows,
Breakout rooms for small group activitiesSynchronous Vs. Asynchronous Learning
Comparison and Contrast of Synchronous and Asynchronous e-LearningSynchronous e-LearningAsynchronous e-LearningInstructional programs delivered on a computer
Web-based, self-paced, self-study
Participants interact with others    via e-mail, online discussion     groups and bulletin boardsCourse material is available when learner is ready
Requires frequent and relevant     interactions to sustain attention     and promote learningComputer–mediated learning
Nearest to classroom-style
Instructor-led
Real-time method
Participants engaged at same time in instructional eventGrowing share of on-line training
Aka virtual classroom, remote live training, remote instructor-led trainingAdvantages and Disadvantages of Synchronous e-LearningAdvantagesDisadvantagesMore costly to develop
Technical challenges
Lack of interaction / engagement
Multitasking
Possible teacher’s poor    facilitation skillsConvenience, reduced travel time and costs
Less time away from the job
Faster to develop / deploy training
Higher completion rates than self-study
Train a larger number at less cost