Technological Challenges
We experimented this week using Elluminate http://www.elluminate.com/ . We used it to connect kids together, in groups both large (50 students) and small (4). We found that our internet bandwidth was barely sufficient to handle 50 individuals and in one of our conferences connections were constantly dropping making meaningful communication difficult. Even in the session where bandwidth was not such an issue it became clear that the medium required very focused educational outcomes with clearly defined and simple tasks. Despite the problems the students were extremely motivated and took the technological glitches in stride. They were patient and attempted to complete the assignments to the best of their abilities.
The experience with Elluminate left us feeling confident in our plans to use it as a tool to facilitate online literature circles. Groups of 12 participants should work well. We will continue to practice with small groups in our own schools so we become proficient working and sharing in the virtual environment. Having someone in the same physical room as you makes is much easier to trouble shoot if something unexpected happens.
Photo: Paul White
2 responses so far ↓
Beth // November 9, 2009 at 4:42 pm
Happy to hear you are experimenting with Elluminate. Some of our customers do find it helpful to have a second person on hand to help the moderator manage the chat window and to troubleshoot, especially when starting to use the virtual environment, especially for larger groups.
Check out our free online training videos and documentation. There are short videos that focus on a specific feature to help you get the most from your session. http://www.elluminate.com/support/training/index.jsp
OakesMedia // November 11, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Beth thanks for your comment. We are just beginning to figure out teaching collaboratively with Elluminate. Our next project is to create literature circles between 3 small isolated rural schools in our District. What we lack in experience the students make up with enthusiasm for the process.
Ken