A number of districts, schools, higher education, TETN and electronic field trip providers connect to the netVision20 videoconferencing network to provide a variety of distance learning opportunities.
Videoconferencing is available to netVision20 members with a video contract or through hourly purchase without membership and a video contract. Videoconferencing includes netVision20 Videoconferencing, Bridging (TETN, Virtual Field Trips, etc.) and Satellite Downlinking. A variety of teaching, learning and staff development opportunities are available. Sample videoconferencing programs currently in use are electronic field trips, professional development for educators, school board training, college and university credit opportunities, dual-credit courses and out-of-state interviews.
Our videoconferencing partners include a number of districts, schools and/or higher education partners connected directly or indirectly to the ESC-20 videoconferencing hub. Videoconferencing sites capable of participating are connected via bridging, via the internet, via ISDN or via H.323.
Bridging
ESC-20 provides robust and flexible video bridging services through dial-up or direct connections for point-to-point and multi-point conferencing. Video bridging allows netVision20 clients connected to the ESC-20 hub in a "Nailed-up" or "direct-connect" manner to videoconference with "off-network" sites. The netVision20 video supports an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and Primary Rate Interface (PRI) which is connected directly to the ESC-20 MCU. ISDN provides the capability to dial remote locations across the country (and the world) and is an ideal way to access virtual field trips, remote expertise, and colleges and universities in other states.
Part of the video bridging service is remote site testing. Prior to any conference involving a remote or off-network site, a technical test of the site is conducted by ESC-20 staff to verify connectivity, audio and video quality, and establish technical contacts. Remote site certification is conducted at least 48 hours prior to a video bridge event.
Freedom Calls
In conjunction with the Freedom Calls Foundation ESC-20 provides videoconferencing services connecting families in real time with their loved ones serving in Iraq.
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) and the Regional Education Service Centers cooperatively engage in a focused effort to maintain, operate and improve a state-wide telecommunications network for videoconferencing -- the Texas Education Telecommunications Network (TETN). TETN provides cost effective interactive audio/video communications to educators across Texas.
TETN is available at ESC-20 in the Elm Room (onsite). TETN is available remotely when "Allow Districts to Participate" is posted on the event. The requestor will need to meet the following criteria:
1) Has been identified as an invited participant.
2) Is a netVision20 member with a video services contract through ESC-20.
Only netVision20 members with a video services contract can have TETN bridged to their location.
Request for CD
TETN policy prohibits site managers from providing copies of TETN recordings to clients not identified in the target audience.
Virtual Field Trips (VFTs)
On a virtual field trip, you and your students can go just about anywhere on Earth -- out into the solar system and beyond! You can take your students outside the classroom without ever opening the door! Like regular field trips, virtual field trips are designed to be entertaining and educational. See more on Susan Altgelt's BLOG or visit student videoconferencing.
Satellite Downlinking
Several satellite channels can be transmitted to sites that are netVision20 members participating in a video services contract. To see the schedule of satellite opportunities, click the provider and search the catalog. Once you have determined which program you would like transmitted, call to schedule.
