Navigate 2.1.1 Delivery Methods and the Synchronous Vendor Market

Like I've said many times before, my Master's Degree in Instructional Technology was completed entirely online through the University of West Georgia. In addition, I had the opportunity to take online classes as an undergraduate student at Georgia Southern University about ten years ago. In both cases, I greatly appreciated the opportunity to contact my instructors in a synchronous manner when I or they felt it necessary. I am amazed with how many new tools are available for synchronous communication/instruction.

Synchronous Communication tools include Cisco WebEx, Blackboard Collaborate, GoToMeeting, Google+ Hangouts, Skype, BigBlueButton, and Adobe Connect.

Skype and Google+ Hangout are two easy-to-use and device agnostic communication tools. Neither are geared specifically for business or education; therefore, unfortunately neither allows for presentations to be uploaded and viewed simultaneously within those programs. 

Cisco WebEx, Blackboard Collaborate, GoToMeeting, BigBlueButton, and Adobe Connect all have fantastic features that really are geared toward business. The downfall to that is that there are fees associated with their use; however, most do offer a free trial for a limited time.

My short experience with Georgia Virtual School has allowed me a few opportunities to use Adobe Connect, and I was immediately impressed with the intuitiveness of the program. The audio was super clear, and I loved that the presentation was within the program. I certainly see why this is the preferred method for synchronous communication amongst the GAVS community.