Challenges of multisite video conferencing: The development of an alternative teaching/learning model

Abstract

The current trend of globalisation is one that is having a marked impact on society and the area of education in particular is feeling the impact. The dramatic changes that are taking place as a result of globalisation means that the demand for education is increasing significantly. There is growing recognition of not only the need for skills development but also reskilling and a requirement for lifelong learning (Duguet, 1995). Additionally, the increasing availability and stability of communications technologies along with the economic rationalisation that is characteristic of the nineties, means that educational institutions are rethinking the ways in which they deliver teaching and learning activities to an increasingly diverse and dispersed clientele.

This article describes a video conferencing project at Central Queensland University which was implemented to deliver simultaneous interactive instruction in first year chemistry to three campuses - Rockhampton, Mackay, Bundaberg. The article discusses some of the issues of implementing video conferencing as a tool for teaching in a distributed, multi-campus institution and the challenges in developing an interactive teaching and learning model. This includes the need for intensive ongoing staff development and the recognition that staff development for teaching with technology is a long term process of skills acquisition. It also recognises the importance of appropriate student preparation and the part this plays in successfully adopting technologically mediated teaching and learning programs.