Web-conference+Reflections

Everyone was excited because we were so close to the end. We all had questions and Dr. Abernathy had answers, encouraging answers. She always lifts my spirits no matter how difficult the task. I most also give credit to my fellow students, they have been so helpful throughout this program. I am so glad that I went through this with you guys. You are the best!
 * Week Five Web-Conference Reflection**

I was relieved to connect with Dr. Abernathy and my colleagues on Sunday evening, October 31. The bulletin board discussion last week is not as effective as the meeting. Even though we did not use cameras or microphones, the synchronous communication is more effective. I find comfort and encouragement each time we meet. The group was small and there were very few questions, but it always helps to know how other students are doing. It was nice to just talk with each other about life in general as well as find answers to our questions. Dr. Abernathy assured us that we would complete our exam and graduate on time.
 * Week Four Web-Conference Reflection**

** Week Three Web-Conference Reflection **

Sunday’s web conference did not happen as planned because of technical difficulties. Dr. Abernathy was not able to make contact with the conference software. I used the bulletin board to make contact with Dr. Abernathy and my colleagues. Conferencing via the bulletin board was not as effective as the synchronous contact of the web- conference, but we were able to pose questions and get answers. One of the bulletin board post mentioned Google Chat as a way to communicatein rel time. I was able to connect with one of my colleagues, and we helped each other. Fortunately I did not have any major questions. I know that I can email both Sarah and Dr. Abernathy if I need help. I do look forward each week to meeting online.


 * Week Two Web-Conference Reflection **

The web-conference on Sunday, October 17, was unique because it was small. There were only five students and Dr. Abernathy in attendance, so it was easy to communicate in a more natural way. Questions were answered almost immediately after they were posed. The conference seemed more intimate as we connected on both a professional and personal level. Dr. Abernathy provided us with the information that we requested and the encouragement that we needed. We encouraged each other as we shared our concerns and our victories. I can see that small groups can especially benefit by the collaboration afforded through web conferences. There are times and situations in which large groups will work well, but it was nice to be a part of the small group. I feel that I know my professor and colleagues much better as a result of the experience. I believe that this mode of communication is filled with potential for education at many levels.

Week 1 Web-Conference Reflection
Meeting Dr. Abernathy and my colleagues in an online webinar was an effective and enjoyable experience. I was a little intimidated at the idea of appearing online especially with a headset. It turned out to be a great adventure. I could see the faces and hear the voices of my professor and my classmates. I had communicated with my classmates for some time through the discussion boards, emails, blogs, and wikis, but this was different. It was almost as though we were in the same room carrying on a conversation. I knew Dr. Abernathy as a teacher in what seemed to be a teacher-centered world, but the web-conference helped me view her as a person, and it felt more student-centered. I was reminded that I am part of a caring academic community. The experience was not perfect. There were times when the audio dropped out, and/or the video was lost. There were times when someone's microphone was open creating feedback or background noise. Sometimes the pace was too fast to keep up with. People asked questions and before they could get an answer they would ask it again and again. A few questions were not answered, but Dr. Abernathy encouraged students to resubmit them by email. Patience was the key. Even with the few problems the experience was encouraging. I hope that I will be able to utilize go to meeting in my future as a technology facilitator. The program allows face to face meetings without the expense of travel. There may be times that a physical meeting might work best, but having the option of a virtual meeting is a 21st century tool.