Video conferencing has been used within higher education for over a decade, and within the world of business for a while longer. The technology enables people to see and hear each other by using a combination of computer and communication technologies. Users can communicate at a distance, share the same computer-based workspaces and visually collaborate.

Teachers and presenters can sit in their own office or in a nearby studio and present a 'live' lecture in front of a camera attached to a web server. Using a simple switching device and several cameras, the presenter can provide remote participants with graphics, whiteboard, flipchart and other visual aids as well as alternative views of the local classroom, lecture room, etc.

As an interactive communication medium, two-way video stands out in a number of ways. First of all, it's almost like being there. The visual connection and interaction among participants enhances understanding and helps participants feel connected to each other. This goes a long way toward building relationships in a way that e-mail, telephone, or online chat systems cannot, supporting collaboration among traditionally isolated institutions. A videoconference can improve retention and appeal to a variety of learning styles by including diverse media such as video or audio clips, graphics, animations, computer applications.