Title:
Evaluating videoconferencing systems for the quality of the educational experience
Authors:
Ana-Paula Correia, Chenxi Liu & Fan Xu
All from The Ohio State University, Columbus, United States of America
Published:
Distance Education, Volume 41, Issue 4, 28 September 2020
Abstract:
This study analyzed four widely used videoconferencing systems: Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams, and WhatsApp. Using experiential e-learning as the framework for analysis, this study examined the systems’ general characteristics, learning-related features, and usability. We conducted an analytical evaluation and analyzed system features in regard to their impact on the quality of the online educational experience. The results of this analysis provide guidance for selecting effective videoconferencing systems to support learning. They also offer insights on ways to explore teaching approaches and pedagogies for distance education. This paper offers a set of recommendations as well as suggestions for videoconferencing system improvements.