ABSTRACT
The focus of this chapter is to examine the contemporary uses of video conferencing, focusing on pupils’ interactions with peers and experts. Video conferencing allows pupils to interact with people and places beyond their classroom. In this capacity, video conferencing allows pupils to learn from speakers and take educational tours without leaving their classrooms. As a result, pupils can learn about the people and places rather than by reading outdated textbooks, looking at pictures or hearing from the teacher. Through video conferencing, teachers can bring the outside world into the classroom in an authentic and meaningful way. There is also the aspect of immediacy, where students can participate in events with people as they are unfolding. In considering school use, there are many-to-many connections (class to class), one-to-many (individuals interacting with the class), small group to group, or one-to-one interactions, which can support learning.
