FlashMeeting
FlashMeeting is a secure platform for video chat and
video conferencing. It's a school safe application that is also
free and easy to access without needing a download or special
software
Using FlashMeeting in school can support communication
amongst both teachers and students, especially when the more
interactive tools are used.
Features:
- doesn't require any specialised software except flash (version
7 or above).
- a simple booking system allowing sessions to
be booked in advance and automatically managed so that the
system never becomes overloaded
- any number of registered users anywhere can take part
simultaneously
- all activity can be recorded for archiving, practice, or
review
- participants cannot interrupt speakers: they are forced into a
system of queuing and waiting turns, thus it supports the
development of tricky social skills
- an additional text tool for background chat
- participants can open additional web pages (in a separate
browser window) on all connected screens to illustrate a point or
to provide further information
- a voting tool which allows participants to say "yes" or "no" to
any kind of proposal
It's a cost effective way of bringing an international
partnership to life as it relies on a basic webcam rather than
expensive purpose-built video conference equipment. A microphone
and/or a webcam is required to participate in meetings, though
you can view a meeting without either of these.