Alternatives to Video Conferencing

Video conferencing is not appropriate for all circumstances. Alternatives include:

  • Audio conferencing
    • Including video increases the bandwidth demands on the network. Therefore restricting a conference to audio only reduces the load on the network and also allows participants to use alternative equipment such as standard telephones.
    • The main disadvantage is the lack of visual clues to assist in contributor management and the chairing of any meeting.
  • Stored video streaming
  • Live video broadcasting
  • Offline video material
    • If the focus of a conference is on the viewing of video material rather than interaction then there are more efficient ways of delivering this, either using broadcast (one-way) rather than interactive (more-than-one-way) technologies; through storing video on a server and letting viewers watch at their own pace; or alternatives to online delivery such as DVD/CD/VCR
    • These alternatives can deliver a better quality audio-visual experience
    • A good compromise can be to deliver a lecture or other content via a recording, then follow that with an interactive plenary session.
  • Field Trips
    • Video conferencing is often touted as a way to access museums and galleries without the complications of a field trip. While this is true few would argue that there is not added-value in extra trips
    • Conferencing of this kind should be a supplement to actual visits from the classroom, not as a complete replacement.