BigBlueButton (BBB): Live Video Conferencing / Webinar Tool Integrated within iKamva for Teaching and Learning Practices

BigBlueButton (BBB): Live Video Conferencing / Webinar Tool Integrated within iKamva for Teaching and Learning Practices

Tuesday, March 17, 2020

CIECT has engaged in extensive exploration in order to identify a live video conferencing/webinar eTool that is fully integrated within iKamva.

The BigBlueButton (BBB) eTool was identified as a suitable video conferencing tool which enables Live Lecture Interactive Engagements.

BBB should enable lecturers to:

●        moderate and control student interactions;

●        upload and present their lectures (Pdfs, PowerPoint slides);

●        use annotation features on live presentations and documents; and

●        highlight key sections within a document/article.

Thereby the students should be able to interact with the lecturer and:

●        engage in live interactive video lectures;

●        listen to audio slides and live chats;

●        view the lecturer’s shared desktop; and

●        view recorded video lecture sessions (in real-time).

Successful Pilot - PGDIP:TVET [Distance Learning]

These features were piloted with the Institute for Post School Studies (IPSS), specifically the PGDiP: TVET, from second semester 2019. The lecturers are continuing with the effective use of BBB in 2020.  The distance learning students are able to view and engage in the live streaming of a lecture.

The feature of recording the live video lecture will be implemented during the second phase during the 2020 academic year.

CIECT will share self-help videos regarding the BigBlueButton, in order for staff to continue with online lectures and meetings.