The document discusses the backchannel and its role in communication alongside live spoken remarks. Some key points: - The backchannel allows an online conversation in real-time alongside a live presentation or speech. It engages audiences and lets remote participants join in. - Common backchannel tools include direct messaging, blogs, Twitter, and live polling. It provides advantages like feedback and engagement but risks distracting from the speaker or main content. - For speakers, benefits are feedback and engagement, but drawbacks are a lack of control over the discussion and not seeing all remarks. Overall, the backchannel both promotes participation and challenges traditional presentations.