The incorporation of a virtual classroom into an elearning system is only as strong as the sum of its parts. In this case, those parts are the tools that are infused into its software. Aggregately, most virtual classroom software aim to produce a simulation of what students would experience in a real life classroom being taught by an instructor. The failure in this pursuit is the end goal – aiming to simulate rather than revolutionize the learning experience. It is this mode of thinking that has produced a wasteland of technology that fails to realize its potential, one that most certainly has the ability to offer more than a traditional classroom setting. Such a feat would require features that integrate all of the knowledge, wit and personality of a tutor with applications that have the capability to enrich material and bring it to life in ways never seen before. The reality of it is virtual classrooms should key in on the weakness that traditional classrooms present.
voluxion virtual classroom poll feature
For example, cae’s voluxion virtual classroom allows tutors to take class polls or ask multiple choice questions in real time and instantly receive feedback concerning the results. In an actual class setting, this would demand much more time and effort, something that cannot be afforded when held to time constraints. Another feature which cae’s voluxion virtual classroom permits is the interaction between fellow classmates, which can be completely controlled and monitored by the tutor.
For instance, if a lesson on history was being taught and the tutor wanted students to discuss their view points, all they would have to do is assign subgroups. The tutor could then allow interaction between students while monitoring each group by the simple click of a button. Performing a feat such as this in an actual classroom would require physical separation, offer no anonymity to the tutor and would hinder the participation of those students who have trouble interacting. Another factor to consider is the amount of noise and disruption this would create. With cae’s virtual classroom, you can also easily assign and revoke permissions for everything from a whiteboard to voice chat and application sharing. So instead of asking an introverted student to come up to the board and dissect a problem, you can allow them access to a virtual board with a variety of tools and grant them the comfort to concentrate on the task at hand rather than have them worry about all of the eyes in the classroom that are tracking their every move.
At cae, we firmly believe that it’s not about simulation or duplication; it’s about utilizing technology to revolutionize teaching and creating tools with the ability to enhance learning in ways never thought possible. For more information about voluxion, check out the CAE website at www.cae.net or view our YouTube Promo.
