Subject: [IFETS-DISCUSSION:966] Re: Reply to Brent "Online Learning"
From: Arthur M. Recesso (amrecess@valdosta.edu)
Date: Thu 25 Jan 2001 - 20:03:22 MET
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001 14:03:22 -0500 From: "Arthur M. Recesso" <amrecess@valdosta.edu> Subject: [IFETS-DISCUSSION:966] Re: Reply to Brent "Online Learning"
> You asked:" What landmark technologies might alter the future of computer-mediated
> education? (related to online learning)
Brent, one of the technologies that will change the face of online learning is the
multiconferencing unit (MCU). Using this server-based system, you are able to
interact 'live' with multiple people through video and audio. The system is
multi-conferencing and supports multi-points-of-presence. Multiple people in multiple
remote locations are able to interact synchronously. The technology allows us to come
full-circle, enabling synchronous-learning. While the technology does show promise,
we have found several issues to be limiting the widespread use of MCU for online
learning.
1. Cost. A system we have on campus costs an estimated $24,000 for 16 simultaneous
users (this includes all hardware and software and a support package). But we could
spread this cost across multiple semesters or per-student use and find the system to
be economical.
2. Bandwidth. Our campus has the capability to support the system with a T1
connection, gig ethernet switch, and 100mb ethernet to the desktop. Campuses without
these capabilities could not support an MCU for online learning. Our local K-12
schools range in bandwidth availability. Many schools have a T1 providing quality
access to teachers, some schools have broadband capabilities, and others have limited
access, but at least a 56kb dedicated leased line into the building. There is no ISDN
available to our local schools, so that is not an option. We have tested the system
with a 56kb dail-up connection. The video-motion quality was poor, but the audio
connection was of good quality.
3. Firewalls. This has been our biggest problem area. Video conferencing interfaces
(such as Microsoft Netmeeting) do not traverse firewalls very well. School district
technicians, rightfully so, do not want to open "holes" in the firewall allowing the
video interface to work.
As the technology matures we will overcome many of these issues.
Art Recesso
Valdosta State University
Valdosta, GA USA
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