1.  Asynchronous Text Conferencing: One of the major advantages of Tapped In or Yahoo groups is ease-of-use. The instructions are written very clearly, and you can plug in quickly with minimum learning time for its language conventions.

 2.  Real-time Audiovideo Conferencing: The AT&T link explains the equipment needed and the steps in the conferencing process. Studying and experimenting with the options are essential! (Many users who complain about implementation difficulties have not taken advantage of the online documentation.)

 3.  Some districts or schools have implemented firewalls -- barriers to prevent either untoward or inappropriate access. While "good fences make good neighbors..something there is that doesn't love a wall" (Robert Frost), firewalls keep "bad" things out but can also keep "good" things in. Your district technology coordinator can help with this issue.

 4.  Users report that, regardless of the mode of conferencing, small groups (less than 6) work best.

 5.  Whether setting up an on-line asynchronous conference or an e-mail mailing list, the role of an active moderator (or moderators) usually marks the difference between success and failure.

Studies have shown that when starting a new mailing list or conference, around 60% of the messages or content will be generated by the moderator. A moderator ensures that any question posted will get a timely and helpful response. A moderator will also pose questions and challenges to the group, creating excitement and encouraging participation.

Once a group has reached a critical mass of participation, the workload of the moderator is reduced to monitoring the message flow, answering questions not answered (or having incomplete answers), keeping discussions on track, ending or splitting off discussions that have wandered "far afield".

 6.  ISTE has published "Videoconferencing for K-12 Classrooms" by Cole, Ray and Zanetis; in toto, these educators show decades of experience in illustrating examples and providing proven strategies.

 7.  A final word--yes, entering the world of online conferencing requires an investment of your time. Think about the places to go and the people to meet--a whole new world.

Tapped In

http://tappedin.org/tappedin/

Yahoo! Groups

http://groups.yahoo.com/

AT&T Videoconferencing for Learning

http://www.kn.pacbell.com/wired/vidconf/

How Firewalls Work

http://www.howstuffworks.com/firewall.htm

ISTE's "Videoconferencing for K-12 Classrooms"

http://www.iste.org/store/product.aspx?ID=676