• What do I want to do?

I have frequently used  a web conferencing tool to communicate with distance learning students and online advising. I want a tool which is easy for both my audience and me to use.

• What technology will help me accomplish my goals?

As different software became available, I have tried various progams. For some years, NOVA had a Centra license. This worked fine until Centra was purchased by Oracle. Then, the program appeared to deteriorate.

Next, I adopted a free version of Elluminate for online tutoring. The free version only accomodated three participants, but the program worked well.

Blackboard acquired Elluminate and renamed it Blackboard Collaborate. Minor damage was then done to the program, but I was able to use a Blackboard Collaborate room to eMeetings with online students. Then, when I acquired a computer with Windows 8, I discovered that application sharing would not work.

When I complained about this deficiency to a Blackboard representative at a New Horizons conference, he recommended that I try Blackboard Instant Messenger. I was able to use application sharing, but my screen would freeze half a dozen times in an hour. I could see this, so I had to train my students to say "screen froze." I then had to switch from screen sharing to the whiteboard and back to screen sharing, not an ideal situation.

Next, I learned that we have access to Google Hangouts through our student email page. This program is superior to both Blackboard Collaborate and to Blackboard Instant Messenger, but it only accommodates 15 participants, including the moderator. This worked fine for my online eMeetings, but it is not adequate for holding a larger class, which would be useful for snow days.

In spring 2015, I learned that NOVA faculty now have access to WebEx.

I was given a WebEx room. All I had to do was email the link to my room to my students, and students had no difficulty signing in.

I was able to use WebEx in spring 2016 to hold online class meetings when the college was closed due to inclement weather.

• How easy is it to use?

Because I am familiar with web conferencing software, the transition to WebEx was easy. I do not believe that it would be difficult for a first-time user.

• How do I learn to use it?

The program contains online help, but I found the commands to be self-evident.

• How can I obtain it?

Go online to NOVA forms and submit an online request via form 105-045 IT Accounts Request Online Form.
The form is forwarded to your Dean. After a few weeks, I was notified that my WebEx access had been approved.

• What does it cost?

This is free for the indiviudual faculty, but NOVA pays for a WebEx site license.