Google Hangouts is an application that allows multiple people to communicate through messages, video, or voice calls. In a world of collaboration, Hangouts provides the means for up to fifteen people anywhere to work together. Unique built-in features make it useful for educators.
Face-to-face contact with high-definition video and sound provide a quality experience
Automatic screen focuses on whomever is speaking
Minimal background noise and "intelligent muting"
Easy-to-use interface from phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop
Built-in screen share accommodates slide shows and online tutorials
Built-in chat for added accessibility
Activate from Google Calendar with just one click
Custom Administrative control ensures privacy
Video:
Uses:
Online office hours
Tutoring
Study groups
Parent-teacher conferences
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
Free
Mobile compatible
Can be used to make phone calls
Can be used to send text messages
Cons:
Does not work when using Internet Explorer and Windows 8 combined
Possibly needs a combination of Google plugins and the Hangout app which can be tricky to navigate
Does not work with all microphones, webcams, and audio devices
Alternatives:
AnyMeeting: AnyMeeting is another software for synchronous communication, including VOIP, webcam, screen-sharing, textual chat, and archiving capabilities. It is free for meetings of up to four people; otherwise, users must have a paid account.
Blackboard Collaborate: Collaborate is a virtual classroom software for synchronous communication. It includes VOIP, webcam, screen-sharing, white board, textual chat, and archiving capabilities.
GoToMeeting: GoToMeeting is another software for synchronous communication, including VOIP, webcam, screen-sharing, textual chat, and archiving capabilities. There are a couple pricing plans available.
Skype: Skype is a free software for synchronous communication, including VOIP, webcam, and screen-sharing capabilities.
WebEx: WebEx is another software for synchronous communication, including VOIP, webcam, screen-sharing, white board, textual chat, and archiving capabilities. It is free for meetings of up to three people; otherwise, users must have a paid account.
Comments (1)
Pam Bice said
at 8:25 pm on Jun 21, 2015
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