1. Synchronous Communication
Tanya – Video Conferencing
Amna – Instant Messaging
Maria – Virtual Classrooms

2. Definition
• Communication in ‘real time’.
• Includes
– Video Conferencing
– IM (Instant Messaging)
– Virtual Classrooms
According to Hrastinski (2008) quot;Synchronous
sessions help e-learners feel like participants
rather than isolates...quot;.

3. Skype
• Overview
• Founded in 2003
• Uses VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology which allows
voice communication over IP networks e.g the Internet.
• Software is free to download.
• Free Skype-to-Skype voice and video calls
• Cheaper local, national and international rates
• Incorporates the use of Instant Messaging.
• In 2008, Skype recorded 405 million user accounts and 33.7 million
active daily users.

4. System Requirements or Restrictions
• Both users must download Skype.
• Users must have a headset with a microphone.
• To make video calls, users must have a webcam.
• Skype requires users to be online at the same time.

5. Example of Skype in a Learning
Environment
EChinese Learning
• Learning a language via distance education.
• Incorporates face-to-face learning using Skype as a video conferencing tool
Benefits
• Learning can be ‘anytime, anywhere’ – learning more accessible
• Video-conferencing mirrors a traditional classroom – makes learning more
comfortable.
• Learning in ‘real-time’ allows for instant feedback.

6. Disadvantages
• Learners must be online at the same time.
• Time differences can be an issue.
• Technology sometimes fails
• Time is limited

7. Instant Messaging
(IM)
• What is IM?
• Examples of IM in use
• Benefits
• System restrictions &
requirements
• Disadvantages or
Challenges
• Recommendations

8. Benefits of NotesBuddy
• Communication efficiency
• Work efficiency
• Free

9. Disadvantages/Issues
NotesBuddy vs. Sametime
Continually being developed
NotesBuddy is free

10. System Requirements or Restrictions
of IM

11. Recommendations for the appropriate
integration of IM into the workplace
• Authentic
• Security
• Anti Virus
• Special Features
• System Requirements

12. Global Virtual Classroom
• Overview
• Founded in 1996
• Collection of free, online educational activities and resources
• Aimed at students aged 7-18 years old
• Free to schools anywhere in the world
• Conducted completely online
• Incorporates the use of chat, instant messaging and video
conferencing
• Approximately 29,000 students and 1300 teachers participate from
over 500 schools and 50 countries

13. System Requirements or Restrictions
• Users have to be a member of Global Virtual Classroom
• Students need to be online at the same time
• Schools need access to Internet Explorer, headphones and video
camera

14. Benefits
• Connects students from around the world
• Teaches students cross-communication skills
• Provides students with useful computer skills
• Offers challenging goals and activities
• Safe and secure online environment
• Offers tips, guidance and online support

15. Disadvantages
• Technology can fail
• Time zones
• Motivation of students
• Everyone has different learning styles

16. Recommendations
• Technologies should not be used on their own.
• Should be used in conjunction with a
traditional learning environment.
• A variety of learning techniques should be
used to cater to individual learning styles.