Canvas Tools: Conferences is Alternative to Zoom

Conferences:  There is a very interesting online class tool built into Canvas called Conferences.  The best way to learn about it is to log into Canvas, click into conferences and then watch the informational videos.  There are videos for students to learn about it and for instructors.  You could assign students to watch the student video to prepare them for using Conferences.  I have copied the link to the intro video for teachers here:  BigBlueButton/Canvas Conferences

More links to YouTube videos:  Video on Conferences  and This one.

Features:
*   Students log in and then their icons appear along the side in the chat window.
*   Teacher can share their webcam and students can as well, lots of control over this for teacher.
*   Teacher can share presentation, PDF, share a Youtube video, or share their desktop.
*   Students can chat with class, with individuals, or with the teacher in a side bar.
*   Teacher can promote student to be presenter.
*  There is a white board that the teacher can draw on or set it for students to write on.
*   Teacher can break the class down into separate break out sessions for group work and then bring them back together.
*   Teacher can conduct mini quizzes while presenting.
*   Session can be recorded (It says that this is somewhat limited to keeping session for 14 days.  Not sure if you can download it to share again later.) 

Very impressive alternative to Zoom or Panopto, I'd say.  It is also discussed by ELAD in Conferencing Comparisons where they mention Conferences, Zoom, and Cranium Cafe.

Based on the intro videos, I am strongly considering using this for my synchronous lecturing in my class spring quarter.  It seems to have all the tools you might need.  I just need to check on how to preserve the recordings for longer than 14 days in some way.

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