At the Washburn Law School library, we are currently developing computer-based videoconferencing techniques over the Internet using the CU-SeeMe system. CU-SeeMe is a software program developed at Cornell University that enables videoconferencing by two or more computers (software available for both the IBM PC and Macintosh computers) using a local network (using Internet Protocol) or the Internet. CU-SeeMe users can connect directly to another CU-SeeMe computer or by using a reflector (a UNIX based computer that can redirect video) a group of computers can connect and interact with one another.
The most attractive feature of CU-SeeMe is the price. The components listed below are the minimum standard needed for CU-SeeMe:
I have been asked what plans we have for videoconferencing and even though we have just begun to delve into this new technology I can see several uses for it already. We are exploring ways to transmit committee meetings for our regional library consortium, broadcast our guest lecture series, CLE seminars, job interviews, technical support demonstrations, moot court and mock trial competitions. We are planning to videocast some of the activities of our annual alumni reunion, and have explored the possibility of setting up some kind of video conference for prospective students. I have read of some interesting applications of CU-SeeMe technology, for instance, one school has a camera set up in their computer lab so that students can see how many people are using the lab and decide whether to come in or not (good use for security monitoring applications also). Another application is using CU-SeeMe to carry video feeds of television programs, whether they be CNN or the local feed of the television station carrying the Oklahoma City bombing. Classroom videoconferencing is gaining popularity as this technology becomes more prevalent. I have read of several multi-classroom projects where classes were connected to one another by pooling resources. More and more conferences are videocasting parts of their programs; just last week I saw Bill Gates give a keynote address to a symposium of computer professionals. We here at the law library have set up a reflector and you can see video feed of our reference department, see and talk with Mark Folmsbee our Associate Director and maybe catch a glimpse of me hanging around from time to time. Using a program called GO Cu-SeeMe GO, you can access our CU-SeeMe reflector on the web. I have also set up a camera to take a picture of the reference desk every minute to be displayed on our web site. The WashLaw Reflector IP is 198.252.9.6 or use the reflector name lawlib.wuacc.edu
CU-SeeMe resources are increasingly available. Listed below are some of the sites that will help you the most:
Internet TV with CU-SeeMe by Michael Sattler A good book for beginners exploring the technology. ISBN 1-57521-006-1 published by Sams Net.