Beyond the Desktop
While desktop videoconferencing is a convenient way to communicate with others, it is not the only way to interact dynamically with remote participants. Nor is it necessarily the best. Privacy and security concerns, quality, and participant technology comfort levels may dictate a different approach in some situations.
Dedicated Polycom units may be used when higher-quality and security are needed. They require at least one dedicated videoconferencing unit, but may also connect with desktop PCs equipped with the proper software. These systems generally require an operator and the software must be purchased; however, they provide for a more secure, private communication environment.
Another option is the Access Grid. This is a dedicated videoconferencing room that is capable of very high quality display of multiple video sources and offers high-speed connectivity. The disadvantage, of course, is that you need to go to a special room and each participating site must also have access to a similar facility. This may be a good choice, however, for important research collaboration. Iowa State has a special room equipped for Access Grid videoconferencing in the Durham Center.
Adobe Connect
Still another option for advanced videoconferencing and webinar broadcasting is Adobe's Connect service. Adobe's Connect service is a powerful videoconferencing application with many additional capabilities beyond simple desktop videoconferencing. This service allows the host location to broadcast seminars and meetings over the internet. Presenters need not be in the same location as the Connect session host. The host can assign presenter status to anyone who will be presenting. With Adobe's Connect service, participants see a video of the presenter as well as any materials he or she may have on the computer in use. Remote participants may also have the ability to chat via text messaging with the host and others in the conference. Additional functions such as recording the session for viewing later and polling of remote participants are just a couple of features possible with Adobe's Connect service.
To host a Connect session, a dedicated server equipped with the Connect software is required. Iowa State has a Connect server in Durham Center. To present in a Connect session, one must have the proper Adobe plug-ins installed that will enable the sharing of his or her computer screen. For remote participants who will not be presenting, an internet connection with a current web browser and the address of the Connect "room" are all that is required, other than permission from the host. For additional information on the Adobe Connect services available at Iowa State, contact Classroom Services at 515-294-8026.
