Evaluating videoconferencing systems for the quality of the educational experience

ABSTRACT

This study analyzed four widely used videoconferencing systems: Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams, and WhatsApp. Using experiential e-learning as the framework for analysis, this study examined the systems’ general characteristics, learning-related features, and usability. We conducted an analytical evaluation and analyzed system features in regard to their impact on the quality of the online educational experience. The results of this analysis provide guidance for selecting effective videoconferencing systems to support learning. They also offer insights on ways to explore teaching approaches and pedagogies for distance education. This paper offers a set of recommendations as well as suggestions for videoconferencing system improvements.

Keywords:

• videoconferencing
• experiential e-learning
• analytical evaluation
• usability

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was declared by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ana-Paula Correia

Ana-Paula Correia is an associate professor of learning technologies and the director of the Center on Education and Training for Employment at The Ohio State University. Correia’s research is focused on learning technologies, learning design, and curriculum development. Her work has been published in 55 peer-reviewed journals and books.

Chenxi Liu

Chenxi Liu is a doctoral student of learning technologies at The Ohio State University and a graduate research assistant at the Center on Education and Learning for Employment. Liu worked as a language teacher and TV director. Her research interests include mobile learning, educational technology design, and learning experience design.

Fan Xu

Fan Xu is a doctoral student of learning technologies at The Ohio State University and a graduate research assistant at the Center on Education and Learning for Employment. Xu has worked as an instructional designer for online courses and training. Her research interests include instructional design, computational thinking, and learning analytics.