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New Media and Education: Adobe Connect

What is Adobe Connect?

Adobe Connect is a suite of software used for web-conferencing, remote training, and desktop sharing. Adobe Connect allows users to host audio and video meetings, share their screen, create multiple meeting rooms per meeting, record meetings, integrate chat into meetings, poll meeting attendees, manage a central content library, and use the program via a mobile app. It allows users to adding narration and interactivity to web instruction which can be real time or recorded. Adobe Connect allows creation of multimedia files (audio & video) which can be saved in a compressed format eliminating long download times and can be included in an email, Blackboard site, etc..  

There is no expensive software required to be loaded on the viewer’s computer. As a viewer, you only need a computer with internet/email capabilities, free Adobe Flash plug-in, speakers, and optional headphones (for privacy).  As an instructor, to record audio and video, you only need a webcam (if you want a live picture to appear), microphone, and an internet connection. 

Connect addresses key educational issues: 

  • Increases the effectiveness of online and traditional learning by helping students feel more connected and giving them additional learning resources based on learning style.  
  • Students can interact with one another and the instructor via the chat or view each other live (if all attendees have a web cam).  
  • Faculty can design and prepare segments or whole lectures, demonstrations, or instructions for students in all types of classroom settings as a complement or substitute for traditional lectures.  
  • Expensive equipment is not needed; only a webcam (if desired), internet connection, and microphone are needed for the presenter.  
  • On the student end, they only need an internet connection, web browser, and speakers to access the content at their convenience.   
  • Presentations can be accessed live or on-demand.  
  • Short learning curve for faculty and very easy learning curve for students.

Classroom Uses

  • Classroom recording of lectures, demonstrations, updates, or instructions can be viewed outside the classroom.
  • Students can listen to audio instructions rather than completely relying on reading.
  • Students can listen to instructions or demos as many times as needed assist with learning challenges for some by being able to use repetition
  • Listening to lectures outside of class allows more time for lab work and discussion periods.
  • Students in foreign language or medical terminology classes can listen to the correct pronunciation of words.
  • Speakers in face-to-face classes can be recorded using video streaming for online students to view.
  • Instructors can hold face-to-face office hours with students.
  • If students cannot come to class, course information is readily available to keep current on material if allowed to use video streaming at their convenience.
  • Students can develop bonds with each other and the instructor when using web conferencing.  Research proves that students who feel connected have a greater chance of success in a class.
  • Providing webinars for classroom or business & industry.
  • Capture of classroom guest speakers for future use.