Online teaching platforms have come a long way. While Zoom has been the go-to app for video conferencing for quite some time now, in light of certain security issues, some online teachers are looking for alternatives. So which are the best online teaching platforms like Zoom?
Here we’ve compiled a list of the best Zoom alternatives for hosting your next online class.
Online Teaching Platforms Like Zoom
The best online teaching platforms like Zoom need to offer high-quality video, strong chat capabilities, and even AI-powered features. Today there are many platforms to choose from, but after much research and testing, we can recommend the following:
- Microsoft Teams: Microsoft Teams has emerged as a strong alternative to Zoom by offering a comprehensive set of features for online teaching. With integration into Microsoft Office 365, Teams provides chat, file sharing, and real-time document editing tools. The free version allows up to 300 members and you can upgrade to a business plan which offers more features.
- Google Meet: Google Meet continues to be a popular choice for online teaching, especially for people already using Google Workspace. It’s simple to use, reliable, and integrates with your other Google apps. With Google Meet, 1-to-1 meetings have no time limit. You can host up to 100 people, but for 3 or more people there is a time meeting limit of 1 hour, which should be more than enough time to host a class.
- Adobe Connect: Adobe Connect offers a whole host of features to provide a versatile platform for online teaching. Educators can create interactive learning experiences using customizable virtual classrooms and multimedia content. Adobe Connect also offers analytics that allows you to track your students’ engagement and performance.
- GoToMeeting: GoToMeeting provides a reliable platform for virtual classrooms. There is a free plan which includes 40-minute meetings with up to 3 participants. However, from $16 per month (billed annually) the Business plan includes up to 250 participants, unlimited cloud storage, and a Smart Meeting Assistant. Their mobile app also allows students to participate in classes from anywhere.
- Cisco Webex: Cisco Webex stands out with its emphasis on security and privacy, making it a preferred choice for educational institutions concerned about data protection. There is a free version that offers 40-minute meetings with up to 100 people and basic features like screen sharing and local video recordings. There are paid plans starting from $12 per month (billed annually) for Webex Starter, which includes meetings up to 24 hours long with up to 200 attendees, and advanced features like closed captions, meeting highlights and 10GB cloud storage.
- Jitsi Meet: For educators seeking a free and open-source alternative, Jitsi Meet offers flexibility and customization options. Jitsi Meet provides secure video conferencing capabilities without requiring account registration, making it convenient for spontaneous online classes.
While Zoom remains a popular choice for online teaching, there are many alternatives for you to consider in 2024. Each offers unique features and benefits to suit your particular instructional needs and preferences. It’s up to you to choose the right one, but this list is a great place to start.
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