assignment 7

Using synchronous tools in my future EFL classroom in Saudi Arabia:

Synchronous tools enable real-time communication and collaboration in a same time in a different place. These tools allow people to connect at the same time. There are many synchronous tools that I can use it in the classroom such as, audio conferencing, web conferencing, video conferencing, chat, instant messaging and white boarding. These tools have the advantage of being able to engage people at the same point in time. so I can use them in the classroom to engage all students at the same time. The drawback of synchronous tools is that they require same-time communication. All of these tools have their drawbacks so I will explain each one.

(1)- Audio conferencing: it is cost, especially when international participation is involved. It has poor quality of transmissions because it relies on phone lines. it has Limited visual stimulation. Also the noise can distract participants as well as cut out speaker. The communication medium does not support visual images so the participants of the conference do not actually see each other. So you cannot see and understand the body language of the people you are talking to.

(2)- Web conferencing: a disadvantage of the web conference comes in the form of a lack of detail planning. Those engaged in the call must have discipline and high concentration levels. To be effective, this kind of call must employ a camera, a microphone and other tools. Without any one of these important elements, the call may be a complete failure. Also it is cost.

(3)- Video conferencing: the price may be the biggest drawback of video conferencing for some people. There are some human ways of communicating that do not translate very well over a distance, such as eye contact. When you sit in the same room with someone and listen to a speech or presentation you will make eye contact and they will judge who is paying attention by looking around the room.

(4)- Chat: It usually requires typing, "lower touch" experience.  The disadvantage of chat is there is no body language or tone of voice or other things that are forms of non-verbal communication. online chatting carries about associated risks which includes the ability for people to hide their true characters and be dishonest. This could mean anything from the lying of age to marital status and other matters.

(5)- Instant messaging: all users must use compatible system, usually best for one to one interactions. A disadvantage is there's no tone with instant messaging.

(6)- White boarding: It is cost, bandwidth; may also require audio conferencing to be useful.