TLE 6: AUDIO AND VIDEO CONFERENCING

TLE 6: AUDIO AND VIDEO CONFERENCING

I. Objective:      Give what audio conferencing is.

Identify what video conferencing is.

Identify some Video conferencing software

Give the different guidelines in audio and video conferencing.

II. Content

Audio and Video Conferencing

Audio conferencing is a meeting among three or more persons in different locations that typically uses handheld wired telephones, speakerphones or mobile phones. Since audio is used during this conference, it is a must to have a clear transmission of everyone's voice.

On the other hand, Video conferencing is a meeting among participants in different locations that typically uses computer networks to transmit audio, text and video data. In order to participate in a video conference, you must have a video camera, microphone, speakers and video conferencing software along with your computer with Internet access.

The main advantage of video conferencing over audio conferencing is that participants can see each other which allow them to develop a stronger sense of familiarity.

Video Conferencing Software

Nowadays, making video calls is not as expensive as before since there are plenty of free video conferencing software that are available.

Some of them are:

1.      Skype - This is the most popular voice and chat application. You can use text, voice and video to share your stories or anything you need to do together. There are a lot more of its features now that Skype is already part of Microsoft.

2.      ooVoo - It allows free video conferencing with up to 12 users. It also supports video mail.

3.      Google Hangouts - It offers video call with up to 10 friends aside from other exciting features.

Audio and Video Conferencing Guidelines

Before the conference starts, consider the following:

•        Look (for formal video conferencing) - be concerned about your appearance especially if the conference is formal. Dark or neutral colors of clothing is recommended.

•        Equipment - Make sure to setup your equipment ahead of the scheduled conference so you can do testing of your camera, headset and microphone. Test also the connection early on.

•        Preparations (for formal conferencing) - In case the conference is formal, you must prepare for the agenda of the meeting as well as other materials needed such as pictures, presentations, name tags and others for video conferencing.

•        Venue (for formal conferencing) - In case the conference is formal, you must ensure that the venue is quiet. For video conferencing, the overhead lights and reflections must not be placed in the camera's view. Be aware of the potential distractions.

During the conference, consider the following:

•        Wait until the speaker is finished talking before you respond since there will be a slight delay before you can hear what the speaker is saying.

•        Be courteous and respectful.

•        Keep the microphone muted when you are not speaking.

•        Avoid excessive movement during a video conference.

•        Speak clearly.

After the conference, leave the venue the way it was setup when you arrived.

References:

      Tarun, I., ICT and Entrepreneurship 6, pp 39-41