Videoconferencing
The Batesville Memorial Public Library has
videoconferencing
equipment
that can be scheduled for public
use.
Our Polycom VSX 7000 is an IP-based system that allows us to do
videoconferencing via a Web connection. This project is supported by the
Institute of Museums and Library Services
under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act,
administered by the
Indiana State
Library.
The Batesville Memorial Public Library is a member of the
Indiana Library Video Network.
What is videoconferencing?
Videoconferencing technology allows two or more people at different
locations to see and hear each other at the same time. In addition, it
is often possible to share computer applications such as Internet pages,
library catalogs, documents and software. This rich communications
technology offers new possibilities for students, teachers, business people,
and the general public including formal instruction (courses, lessons and
tutoring), connection with guest speakers and experts, multi-site project
collaboration, professional activities such as meetings and interviews, and
community events.
Why choose videoconferencing? Sometimes it's not enough to just
hear words spoken over a telephone -- you need a context, a connection to
someone or something. You need to know that "yes" means, "yes, I
agree" not "yes, I think I understand you." Videoconferencing can help
you differentiate between them. Whether you are separated by a single
wall, building(s), across the state, or even across several continents,
videoconferencing is a practical tool for providing the means for groups or
individuals to share information spontaneously, compressing both travel-time
and distance. Using interactive videoconference equipment reduces the
amount of time and money spent in transit to and from meetings.
Videoconferencing also reduces the concern for traveling during inclement
weather. With videoconferencing, geographically remote people are able
to fully participate in a meeting. Another plus of videoconferencing
is that you may include more participants in an interactive videoconference
than space may allot for conventional types of meetings, allowing a wider
range of representations.
How are people using videoconferencing? Some examples include:
Educational Programming. Exciting programs that range from the arts to science to history -- the possibilities are nearly limitless. Hundreds of single events, series, and classes are offered by program providers which include hospitals, universities, museums, zoos, businesses and more. Students of all ages, curriculum directors, gifted and talented coordinators, Title One coordinators, teachers, technical coordinators, paraprofessionals, parents, and library patrons can all take advantage of videoconferencing learning opportunities.
Professional Development. Administrators, teachers, managers, and staff all find considerable opportunities -- both formal and informal -- for professional development. Through on-network training sessions and seminars, participants can broaden their knowledge and skills. They gain new insights when they collaborate with colleagues from other organizations.
Personal Improvement. Job seekers can use videoconferencing equipment to interview for positions anywhere in the U.S. or around the world.
How do I get started in videoconferencing?
A good place to start is through the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC). The CILC's Videoconferencing Program Catalog is available online, or at the Circ Desk at the library. The catalog describes hundreds of programs that are offered through partnerships with nearly 50 program providers.What does a videoconference cost? Costs vary. Some programs are free; most have a fee involved. The CILC website has fee information for the programs listed in its online catalog.
If you are interested in utilizing this technology, please contact the library at (bmpl@cnz.com) or 812-934-4706.
Satellite Programming
The Batesville
Memorial Public Library is able to provide satellite programming to
the community. Our tunable satellite dish has both C- and Ku-band capability. All programming
can be viewed in meeting rooms that accommodate from 1 to 100 people. If
you have a request for a teleconference or other programming, please contact
the library (bmpl@cnz.com)
or 812-934-4706.
Videoconference & Satellite Links
Accredited Distance Learning
Degrees
Find every college offering distance education degree programs in seconds.
Accredited Bachelor's, Master's, MBA, and PhDs available via distance learning.
Some are available at the BMPL
Center for Interactive
Learning and Collaboration (CILC) Provides expertise in videoconferencing. The searchable catalog of content
providers is most valuable.
Indiana College Network
The ICN is a service of Indiana's colleges and universities, making
higher education available, via distance education, to Indiana residents.
Most courses are available at the BMPL.
Indiana Library Video Network An assemblage of Indiana Public Libraries, along with INCOLSA and the Indiana
State Library, that utilize IP based videoconferencing for meetings and
continuing education opportunities. Member institutions also use the equipment
to deliver courses and virtual field trips for their users.
Satellite 911 An online, C-band helpdesk.
Satellite ORBIT Magazine National TV programming magazine. Includes features and monthly updates.
Satellite TV Technical information for C-Band satellite receivers in North America.
