In chat sessions, messages can be sent to the moderator and to others with permission. A whiteboard is provided for text, diagrams, pictures, polling, and collaborative creativity. Although I have used Elluminate only as a participant I would be thrilled to use the program as an instructor/mediator. Now, having said that, I am required to also review another, similar system and compare the two. My choice for the second web-based interactive communication platform is a CISCO product, WebEx.
WebEx is a web-based conferencing service that is delivered via a proprietary service and can be accessed online, by telephone, WIFI or 3G-enabled mobile phone. WebEx has many of the same features as Elluminate but the capacity for synchronous audio conversation is greater with the CISCO product. WebEx offers two programs suitable for elearning, WebEx Meeting Center and WebEx Event Center. Developed for smaller groups, online meetings, and training, WebEx Meeting Center can accommodate 25-500 attendees, supports phone and VoIP blended sessions, and can be recorded for later access. WebEx Event Center can accommodate 1000-3000 participants, allows integrated testing and LMS integration.
Some noticeable differences between Elluminate and WebEx are price, the CISCO product is slightly less expensive, and number of participants who can engage online at the same event. WebEx has greater capacity for online collaboration and offers many features customized for global businesses but Elluminate has a decidedly scholarly "feel" with a whiteboard app and easy-to-use design.
I welcome your experiences and thoughts concerning either product regarding the efficacy of each for improving instructional capabilities for adult distance elearning.
