Echo360 is a lecture capture system in use at BU. This system captures scheduled events by recording audio (from microphone), desktop activity and video. These elements are then processed and synchronised as a multimedia presentation. Web links to the presentation are then posted to a specified unit in myBU. Students can then review the presentation which is streamed from a media server ensuring fast video playback on and off campus
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Lecture capture facilities are installed and available for booking at the locations listed below. Lectures can also be captured at other locations although this is subject to availability of the required resources.
For lecture capture booking and further information log into http://mybu.bournemouth.ac.uk and visit the myBU Staff Support community (linked from the Home tab), then click on lecture capture. |
The benefits are multiple. Firstly, this technology is clearly advantageous to those students who are unable to attend lectures because of illness or work or who are distance learners, as they still gain the benefit of viewing the lecture.
Secondly, students can re-listen to portions of lectures in order clarify complex points whenever and wherever they like, providing convenient, on-demand education.
Thirdly, students no longer need to make as many notes while in lectures, enabling them to listen more effectively. This offers greater opportunities to students who learn better visually and aurally or who may have additional learning needs such as dyslexia and thereby generates greater inclusivity.
Fourthly, it has been reported that students experience higher satisfaction on courses which use audio recordings to accompany course material than those which do not.
Lastly, research has suggested that recording lectures can be effective in developing collaborative learning and social networking, as the outcomes can be shared across academic communities.
Several concerns about this technology have been raised. The first relates to rising absenteeism. Academic staff are often concerned that using lecture capture software will cause a rise in student absenteeism. Several pieces of research and testimonials from institutions using lecture capture software report that this is not the case and that students enjoy the sense of community they feel when attending lectures.
There have also been concerns raised about privacy; however Echo360 enables its video function to be turned off in order to just capture audio for academics who may feel more comfortable with this. Additionally, microphones can be switched off during the lecture when making comments.
Finally, the issue of copyright has been raised. Further information on copyright is available in the myBU Staff Support Community.
For further information log into http://mybu.bournemouth.ac.uk and visit the myBU Staff Support community (linked from the Home tab), then click on Lecture Capture.