The Role of Video and Text Chat in a Virtual Classroom

Abstract

Virtual classrooms allow users in a closed network to communicate through talk, text, and video. While virtual classrooms enable synchronous online learning, little is known about how specific components of web-conferencing technology impact students' experiences. In this case study, the researcher interviewed 20 students in an online doctoral program and analyzed over 50 hours of footage from six online classes. Findings indicate that the video and text chat features of the virtual classroom provided opportunities for constant interaction and increased students' engagement and sense of community.