'It's A Bit Like Star Trek': The Effectiveness of Video Conferencing

This paper presents an evaluation of the effectiveness of video conferencing as a teaching and learning medium within the area of early childhood studies. The methodology consists of questionnaires administered to the early years' tutors who taught on the course and to students in both Belfast and Armagh (remote site). Findings indicate that students at the remote site have developed learning strategies and skills for dealing with the video-conference lecture. Tutors have had to adopt a formal style of teaching and this has had an effect on how lectures are presented. Furthermore, it is recognized by tutors and students that a tutor needs to be present at the remote site in order to facilitate discussion and deal with questions and problems.