Virtual Whiteboard
The theme of this project required a better understanding of the following topics and their related technologies.
Classroom Learning
A classroom is a place in educational institutions where interactive learning activities can take place. It mostly consists of students, a teacher and a large writing surface such as a black/whiteboard, flipcharts or a projector by which notes can me exchanged and discussed1.
Pros
• Provides interactive setting that promotes the open exchange of ideas between student-student and student-teacher. 6
Cons
• Forcing students to learn by vocal exchange with a professor may limit their ability to learn.
• Does not provide shy students other means to communicate or clarify doubts. Vocal students tend to dominate discussions.
• Grouping of a number of students together in one class does not allow a teacher to give special attention to students who may need it (e.g. students with learning difficulties). 6
Online Learning
Also known as E-Learning, On-line learning is based on Computer-Based Learning/Training and has increasingly made use of virtual classrooms (whereby online presentations are given live) via a network or the World Wide Web2. The six main types of online training currently provided are:
• Web pages
• EBook courseware
• Interactive Learning
• Screen casts
• Webinars
• Interactive Learning Environments5
Pros
• Easily accessible with a basic home computer and internet connection.
• Allows for distance learning.
• Easy information transfer via emails, social networks and chat systems. 6
Cons
• Isolates students from the teacher.
• Many barriers exist in learning complex subjects on-line.
• Limited effective teaching methods known since it is still pretty new. 6
Comparison: Classroom Learning V/S Online Learning
With the popularity of the internet and falling prices of basic home computers,
Classroom Learning
A classroom is a place in educational institutions where interactive learning activities can take place. It mostly consists of students, a teacher and a large writing surface such as a black/whiteboard, flipcharts or a projector by which notes can me exchanged and discussed1.
Pros
• Provides interactive setting that promotes the open exchange of ideas between student-student and student-teacher. 6
Cons
• Forcing students to learn by vocal exchange with a professor may limit their ability to learn.
• Does not provide shy students other means to communicate or clarify doubts. Vocal students tend to dominate discussions.
• Grouping of a number of students together in one class does not allow a teacher to give special attention to students who may need it (e.g. students with learning difficulties). 6
Online Learning
Also known as E-Learning, On-line learning is based on Computer-Based Learning/Training and has increasingly made use of virtual classrooms (whereby online presentations are given live) via a network or the World Wide Web2. The six main types of online training currently provided are:
• Web pages
• EBook courseware
• Interactive Learning
• Screen casts
• Webinars
• Interactive Learning Environments5
Pros
• Easily accessible with a basic home computer and internet connection.
• Allows for distance learning.
• Easy information transfer via emails, social networks and chat systems. 6
Cons
• Isolates students from the teacher.
• Many barriers exist in learning complex subjects on-line.
• Limited effective teaching methods known since it is still pretty new. 6
Comparison: Classroom Learning V/S Online Learning
With the popularity of the internet and falling prices of basic home computers,