CU-SeeMe
CU-SeeMe is a audio and video conferencing software program developed by Cornell University in 1993 and currently owned by White Pines. It allows users to connect with up to 100 people in a chat room like environment. The chat room is unique though in that it allows users to listen to other participants as well as see them if they have video capabilities (somewhat like The Jetsons cartoon). The remarkable thing about this software is that it can be downloaded for free from various sites on the internet. A commercial version, CU-SeeMe Pro 4.0 is also available for $85.99 from Govo Store.
The good news for educators is that most of the resources necessary to use CU-SeeMe are probably already in schools. For the Macintosh users need OS 7.6 or later, Power PC processor (minimum 100 MHz), 24 MB of RAM (32 or more recommended), and 10 MB hard disk space. In addition, for audio capabilities users need a sound card and a microphone. In order to send video, and not be considered a lurker, users need a camera. A Quick Cam will work, and most schools have one.
For those of us who use a Mac at school and a PC at home, the PC requirements are the following: Windows 95/98 or Windows NT 4.0, Pentium processor, 133 MHz minimum( 166 MHz recommended), 32 MB of RAM, 10 MB of hard disk space, digital camera or desktop video cameras and video capture card, speakers or headphones, 16 bit sound card and drivers.
This software could change the way we view education. Distance learning has the potential to really take off. We will be able to connect to other classrooms easily. I think this could really help the gifted students who are in a regular classroom---It would give them the opportunity to connect with other students and teachers to complete challenging projects.
I would suggest the following web sites for more information regarding CU-SeeMe:
CU-SeeMe Cool Page- This site gives instructions on how to download and use software
CU-SeeMe Home Page- Cornell University site
White Pines- Owner of CU-SeeMe software
Chat
Pal- A web site with current information on reflectors in use