Archive for May 16th, 2007

I started a new pilot today. UF is comparing Elluminate with Wimba. We used Elluminate last semester. I had the training for Wimba today and I start using it in class tomorrow.

Both of these programs are synchronous tools designed to create a face-to-face class experience for an online class. On the surface both are similar products that run through a web browser. With a headset microphone one person can talk to the entire class. The interface allows sharing of presentations (PowerPoint, pictures, Flash, movies) in addition to applications. As the presenter, I can run Excel on my machine and share the application with the class. Everyone can then see my desktop. I can even pass control of the application to someone in the class.

Wimba has one feature that I liked. In the session, there is a phone icon. If someone has a problem with an Internet connection, he/she can dial a phone number, type in a passcode and be right back in the discussion via the phone.

I haven’t had experience running a session with Wimba. That will happen today. I’ll give you a report once I’ve taken it around the block a few times.

Last year, when it was time to buy a new computer, I didn’t. Instead I purchased a new video card and a second display. I already had one 19″ flat panel. I picked up another one that matched. The video card is a high end nVidia with two digital outputs.

There are two basic configurations with two monitors: one big screen with the task bar going all the way across or two independent screens. I use the latter. I can still drag applications from one screen to the other, or stretch something across two screens. The main difference is maximizing an application only fills one screen with my setup.

I usually have my email running in the left monitor and EI in the right window. I only run Firefox in the left window. I can look at a spreadsheet in the left window while typing in a document on the right. When I create web pages in the right screen, I can instantly preview them on the left screen. Overall, my efficiency has gone up measurably not to mention my score in Supreme Commander. Forbes says they have seen a 50% increase in productivity from copy editors with two monitors instead of one.

Bill Gates actually has three monitors on his desk. Maybe that’s the secret to being a billionaire.

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