Video Conferencing Web Based Tools

Video Conferencing Tools	Pros	Cons	Features
Skype	This tool allows people to connect with others, anywhere in the world. There are a variety of features for this tool and some of them are free.  Teachers can use this to video conference with other classrooms around the world.	There is a free download available for computers, iPads, laptops, and phones but to access many of the features there is a monthly fee. You need an internet connection.	Video Calls Group Calls Instant Messaging Voice Calls Screen Sharing File Sharing
Adobe Connect Now	There is the ability to audio and visually conference with others. There is an option to share slides and media. The information and data is secure and safe. This tool can be used for online classes and tracking progress.	This does cost money but gives options about buying the full package or cost per use. There are a lot of components so it may be over whelming for some.	There are individual features for desktop, online, and mobile. This tool is designed more for meetings. There are tools to share information for meetings.
Tiny Chat	This tool allows you to connect and chat with people. It includes messaging that are instant while you video chat. The basic application is free.	This seems informal and less professional. Connecting with people you may not know.	Online video chatting and messaging. The responses are instant. Have a directory of contacts.
Meeting Burner	This application can be used on a desktop or a cell phone and the basic option is free. The basic option allows you to video chat with others and host online meetings and webinars. There is also an option to schedule meetings and invite people in.	There is only room to chat and interact with 10 people. That makes it difficult for larger meetings, unless you are willing to pay a fee. The more involved options come with a monthly fee.	Online meetings and webinars. Meetings can be recorded. The ability to email the meeting and webinar participants.
Go to Meeting	The basic application is free. There is the option to start a meeting, send invites, and share your screen with others. This application allows you to connect people all over the world and interact visually and through audio.	Option to video chat up to 3 people with the free application and pay a fee to add more people. To upgrade to pro costs a fee.	Video conferencing, share your screen, audio options and mobile apps.
Yugma	This application allows you to host meetings through conferences and even create websites. There is the option to blog on this site as another form of communication conferencing.	There is a free trial but the main application comes with a fee. The free trial allows for timed meetings that will eventually timeout. Need the most updated version of windows.	Widgets, video conferencing, share information from computer to computer. The widgets include; blogs and creating websites.
Webex	Online meetings and the option to share information and your screen. Webinars can be created. There is the option to schedule meetings and record meetings.	This application comes with a price although it does have a limited free option. Calling features are only available in the U.S., Canada, and Europe.	Online meetings, screen sharing, and adding multiple calls. There is also the option to create webinars.

For video conferencing, I would choose to use Skype. I chose this web based tool because it seems to be the easiest to follow and understand. The features are very straight forward and there are a variety of free options. You are able to video chat with multiple people around the world. There is also the messaging tool and the share your screen tool. I like that you can share your screen and information especially if your students want to show another class what they are working on. Skype is pretty simple to navigate around and has an area to store contacts. I feel that this web based tool is user and student friendly. It is easy to communicate with people and interact with other educators and classrooms. I would use this tool in my classroom and allow my students to interact with other students and discover what is out there in the world of video conferencing.