A conferencing tool is any tool that connects two or more people together at the same time at two or more locations for the purposes of communication and interaction.  

In this section

• Important Information before you get started:  Some factors you need to consider before deciding to use video or web conferencing.

• Web conferencing tools use multimedia-capable computers, a high-speed Internet connection, computer microphones and optional web cameras to enable people, sometimes large numbers, to participate in meetings or lectures usually from their own office or home.

• Videoconferencing tools generally implies dedicated videoconferencing units equipped with high quality cameras and microphones, connected to high-speed Internet connections to connect a small number of people or groups at specific locations using high quality audio and video.
• Teleconferencing tools are tools that make use of telephone technology.  These include the self-service conferencing features built into the phone at your desk (for connecting 3-6 people), and larger teleconferencing services you can arrange through ICT Telephone Services.
• Where to go for consulting and support

A note on administrative use of conferencing tools

While this section makes reference to using conferencing tools for instructional purposes, these tools are also invaluable for many administrative uses such as holding virtual meetings and bringing in guest speakers for meetings or workshops.

• If you have any questions about using conferencing tools in an administrative setting, do not hesitate to contact us about the service you are interested in using.

Features

Conferencing tools open up teaching and collaboration opportunities such as the ability to:

• Bring an expert into your classroom with minimal cost.
• Teach your class while you personally are off campus (e.g., at a conference or doing research).
• Collaborate with colleagues at other universities without any travel expense.
• Work remotely with team members on collaborative projects without having to be in the same physical location.
• Hold online office hours.
• Mentor students who are off campus at various locations.
• Facilitate study groups or personal tutoring sessions.
• Participate in online presentations and conference sessions (Webinars).
• And many more.