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Media and Video Services
Teachers College, Columbia University
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Media Services

Video Conferencing

Video conferencing is an important collaborative tool which allows live interactive lectures and discussions between classrooms around the world via the internet.

There are 3 video conferencing solutions available at TC.

Media Services offers the College two options, Skype and Polycom.

ACS Video Services offers the third option, Adobe Connect.



Click on the icon for the latest Skype Download

The Skype option is completely free it requires no support from Media Services and is designed to be set up by non-technical users. It offers simple plug / play features, just connect your webcam to one of the console's or Smart Board's USB port, click the Skype icon on the PC desktop, create your Skype account for free as prompted and off you go! Skype is ideal for one on one video conferences.

Skype is a basic low resolution video call, presently it has limited data sharing capabilities. Skype also features multi-point conferencing for up to 10 participants for a nominal fee. Media Services has webcams with built-in microphones which are available from our 149HM Help desk for Skype users.

The second option is the Polycom Video Conferencing Platform. This option offers superior video/audio quality compared to Skype and has the additional features of live data sharing and multi-point calling with up to 12 participants via TC's Polycom bridge. There are no fees involved in using the TC Polycom Bridge. TC users can download the free 30-day trail desktop/laptop software available online here, the cost is about $75 to fully activate. Apple iPad users can download the free Polycom App available from the iTune App store.

If you need to borrow a USB webcam Media can provide one which you can pick up at 149HM. If your Polycom video conference requires technical support from Media Services, a Media Video Tech must be contracted and fees will be billed to the user. If you prefer technical support please contact us well in advance of your needs.    

                                    

The third option is based on Adobe Flash technology and is supported by virtually all Internet-connected devices, it is called Adobe Connect. This service offers a complete enterprise webconferencing solution that can potentially increase attendance, boost response rates, and generate interest through rich and engaging, highly-interactive and impactful online events. Adobe Connect support is provided CIS Academic Computing Services.

For assistance with Adobe Connect, please send email to tcappshelp@tc.columbia.edu.

An overview of Adobe Connect is available at the TC Apps web-conferencing link:
  https://sites.google.com/a/tc.columbia.edu/tcapps2/home/tc-web-conferencing

 

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