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= = = = =__**Articles on synchronous tools in Higher Education:**__=

===Asynchronous and Synchronous E-Learning: A study of asynchronous and synchronous e-learning methods discovered that each supports different purposes=== By Stefan Hrastinski EDUCAUSE Quarterly, vol. 31, no. 4 (October–December 2008)

Synchronous Learning Experiences: Distance and Residential Learners’ Perspectives in a Blended Graduate Course
By Yun Jeong Park & Curtis J. Bonk Journal of Interactive Online Learning, Volume 6, Number 3, Winter 2007

= = =__Free synchronous tools:__=

Collaborative tools:
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[|http://meeting.zoho.com/]

Voice and video chat:
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Video conferencing:
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Text chat:
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= = = = =__**Recommended equipment for web-based synchronous communication:**__=

**Microphone headset:**
A microphone headset assures that the microphone remains at a consistent distance from the face, creating a consistent voice level while communication. It is also helpful for clear communication using a webcam, since it prevents echoing. If the below recommended product is unavailable, look for a microphone headset that is noise canceling and connects to your computer via USB.




 * Logitech ClearChat Pro USB™**

· noise-canceling microphone · USB, plug-and-play connection · 8 feet cable length · PC compatible (Windows® XP, Windows Vista™) · Mac compatible (Mac OS® X 10.2.8 or later)

Purchase from Logitech.com: [] Purchase from Amazon.com: []

A web camera allows you to broadcast video over the web through the use of a synchronous tool, like Adobe Connect. Selecting a camera with the recommended video capture dimensions and frame rate, in addition to automatic focusing, light and audio setting, will assure good quality image and voice reception.
 * Web camera:**




 * Logitech QuickCam® Pro 9000™**

· Autofocus system · Built-in microphone with RightSound™ Technology · Video capture up to 1600 x 1200 pixels · Frame rate up to 30 frames per second · PC compatible (Windows® 2000, Windows® XP, Windows Vista™) · QuickCam® Software CD, included

Purchase from Logitech.com: [] Purchase from Amazon.com: []