disadvantages of online presentation

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10 Advantages and Disadvantages of Virtual Meetings

Virtual meetings

Virtual meetings are a real-time and fast-growing method used in every industry to conduct business meetings, seminars, and interact with colleagues about projects, through the Internet.

Virtual meetings are as crucial as physical meetings. They are the only way to connect with your colleagues and clients when you cannot do a face-to-face meeting. 

With the rise in remote jobs and work from home culture, we increasingly turn to virtual meetings to conduct our work and deal with clients globally.

With the availability of multiple video conferences and communication tools, we can attain virtual meetings from any part of the world.

The technology has improved internet connections so that the users on the web can stay connected with all the clients across the globe.

It is useful to host a virtual meeting when you cannot meet your clients personally, as it allows you to discuss the project online and complete it within a specific timeframe. Entering your username and password is all it takes to join the virtual meeting.

Types Of Virtual Meetings For Office

• Teleconference (only audio)

Teleconferencing or conference calls are a type of virtual meeting where multiple participants connect to a common conference call bridge using a specified password to join the call. 

The teleconference is an audio-only meeting between geographically distant individuals. 

• Video conference (audio and video)

Video conferences are a type of online conferencing that allows participants to see, discuss, and exchange ideas as a group. 

• Web conference (audio, video, and content-sharing)

A web conference is an online service with which one participant can host a meeting presentation through the web.  

Users can host web conferences via desktop computers, smartphones, or tablets. It allows individuals to collaborate online and share documents or screens.

Learn more:-   Top Free Presentation Software

Advantages Of Virtual Meetings

• Saves Time and Cost

Online meetings require less cost and time compared to physical sessions. Virtual/online discussion needs a computer or smart device with a stable internet connection.

Conducting a physical meeting requires hotel accommodation costs, arrangements of facilities, travel expenses, etc., 

The attendees need to come from different locations, due to which there may be a delay in gathering all participants.  As such, a physical meeting might become more extended than a virtual meeting, as you need to wait until all the participants are fully present. 

Setting a virtual meeting saves plenty of time. By avoiding business trips and working from a specific location, you can maximise your productivity. 

Similarly, it saves time because a virtual meeting can be completed in a few hours, whereas managing actual meetings takes more time.

Therefore, an online meeting is more cost-effective and saves time than a physical meeting.  

Learn More:- How To Save Time In Daily Life⏰ ⏰  

• Easy Accessibility

The use of virtual meetings enables increased participation among a wider audience as almost anyone can easily access the meetings with an electronic device and a stable internet connection. 

A company with a large number of employees or clients can set up a virtual meet that can be easily accessed saving the need for resources like a fixed location or expenses. 

• Ease Of Sharing Information With Team Members

Discussion and sharing information about the project with clients is necessary to achieve the organisational goal. Especially when you and your client are in different parts of the world, the entire project will be at risk if the provider doesn’t handle the communication correctly.

It is necessary to create numerous copies of documents when attending physical meetings. While the use of virtual conferencing tools like Zoom, Skype, Meet, etc., makes it easier for sharing documents and information in a virtual meeting. 

This ease of sharing information allows the meeting participants to raise any issues in real-time and make changes to the documents whenever necessary. This increases the collaboration of all the team members making the meeting more fruitful. 

Learn more:-   Importance Of Team Collaboration In Workplace

• Easier to Leave 

Sometimes you might not stay full time in the meeting due to a non-relevant topic to your project. We have also experienced the frustration of sitting in a forum that is not relevant to our project. 

No matter how annoying the meeting is, you cannot stand up and quit the physical meeting in front of your colleagues. It is also challenging to make an excuse to leave the session. 

If the meeting is not relevant to your project, it is easier to go when you are in an online discussion. There is less chance of being awkward to excuse and leave the meeting.

• Increased Attendance  

The participants do not need to travel to attend the online meeting. They can attain a discussion on their own time and from anywhere. 

Whether you are sick, are in a remote location, or are caught up in urgent work, you can join a virtual meeting from anywhere. This increases audience participation as even the busiest individuals or sick employees can attend a virtual meet at least for a short period. 

Increased meeting participation means increased idea exchanges, increased collaboration, and fruitful results. 

Learn more:-   Best Attendance Management Software

• Maintain Physical Safety Of Participants 

A virtual meeting ensures the physical safety of its participants. As all participants can access the meet from a convenient location, and there are no face-to-face interactions, things like the spread of germs, traffic accidents due to running late for meetings, etc., do not happen. 

Furthermore, if a meeting goes wrong, the participants cannot engage in a fistfight in a virtual meeting. All in all, virtual meetings reduce the risk of physical injuries or diseases between participants, unlike physical meetings. 

• Set a Clear Goal 

Every individual has their own goal and specific planning when making an organisational decision. Your goal might be different from your team members. 

While discussing, you can share your idea with team members and listen to all the members’ plans to set a final goal.

Proper virtual communication lets you share your ideas and thoughts regarding any project with your supervisors and seniors.

Even while working from home or in different locations, the team members can collaborate on their entire goal through virtual communication and finally set a clear plan by considering every individual’s idea.

Learn more:- Best Software For Employee Engagement👨‍💼👨‍💼

• Motivate Team Members

It is essential to motivate your team members to boost productivity. You can provide vital guidelines to your team members through virtual meetings and encourage them to work. 

Unless the employees are motivated, they cannot properly focus on work. As a result, leaders may provide regular feedback to employees to help them improve their performance, regardless of where they work.

You can use various tools and valuable guidelines to motivate them. The team leader can have a virtual meeting individually with employees and provide the necessary feedback that can be negative or positive. 

You can be polite with employees while giving negative comments or feedback. If you are not polite, they might get panicked and cannot focus on work.  

Learn more:- How to Motivate Your Employees For Better Results💪💪

• Recording the Meeting

In the physical meeting, you need to capture everything in your mind that you listen to the presenters in real-time. You may also miss important information when not present at the meeting. 

In a virtual meeting, you have the option of recording the meeting. If you have multiple things to do while attending an appointment and cannot focus on the discussion, you can record the session and save it to see when you are done with work.

You can keep the recording safely as a file and view it whenever you want to collect any information from that discussion.

Learn more:-   9 Best Screen Recording Software To Record Your Virtual Meetings

• Involvement of the Whole Team 

The meeting can be effective only when the entire team members have involvement. Most of the time, some employees remain absent in a meeting room due to sickness or other work. 

The attendees might not be able to present in time, which will also be a waste.

In a virtual meeting, there is a chance of involving every team member at the appropriate time. With advanced video conferencing tools, every employee can join discussions from any location.

It is not difficult to attend the meeting even when you are sick until there is no emergency. Thus, the virtual meeting becomes more effective with the involvement of the whole staff.

Disadvantages of Virtual Meetings

• Less face-to-face contact with clients and colleagues

Face-to-face communication is one of the most powerful tools available to humans. It promotes a healthy engagement while also building a trustworthy work environment among participants.

However, we only have virtual communication with our clients and coworkers during virtual meetings. A virtual environment, although great for time-saving, simply cannot make team members understand each other more and build more trust. 

Learn more:-   Best Ways To Build Trust With Employees🧑‍💼

• Interactions Between Participants Are Difficult

It is more difficult for all participants to take an active role when a virtual meeting, especially if the group is large. 

In private gatherings, you can talk to each other to some extent and create a reciprocal conversation.

When numerous people speak in a virtual meeting, it’s difficult to understand what they’re saying. It can make the interaction feel unnatural.

Learn More:- Tips for Establishing Effective Communication in Remote Team🤝🏿🤝🏿  

• Difficulty In Understanding Emotions

We, humans, need face-to-face contact to communicate. We use emotions, tone of voice, gestures, and facial expressions as part of our communication. 

 A virtual meeting may not give you a chance to fully express yourself and your emotions. It can also limit the level of understanding you want to get from other participants as you cannot understand their emotions and passion.

• Internet Connections Can Fail  

While working remotely, you might have a poor internet connection at your location. The internet connection may get lost while attending a meeting, and you may not get a chance to attain a complete discussion. Participants might miss a vital part of the session due to poor connection.

Moreover, individuals may also occasionally take advantage of this situation. The participants can use the excuse of an internet connection failure to excuse themselves from meetings.  

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• Members of the team could be in different time zones.

It is not required for all of our company’s employees to live in the same city. If your company’s employees are dispersed across the globe, each with their time zone, you’re in for a major headache. 

You can arrange the meeting for the morning, but some participants may have to attend at midnight due to time zone differences. Attending meetings simultaneously every day can be irritating for those team members.

To address this issue, consider changing the time of the meeting every time so that everyone is treated equally.

• Difficulty In Sample Presentations

A virtual meeting only ensures audio and video. This may be ok in normal discussions. But for presentations of samples of products to the participants, it becomes inconvenient. 

The individuals in the meeting cannot give out any specific response without physically touching some samples as only video and images are not enough. Some samples need to be carefully analysed before making any decisions. 

This is one of the major drawbacks of a virtual meeting.  

• Pay for Software

To conduct virtual meetings, we need various software such as Zoom Microsoft Teams, Skype, GoToWebinar, etc. These tools come in both free and paid versions. If you want a better meeting atmosphere and more features, you need a paid version of the virtual meeting software. 

Paying for the software requires money. And if you want more features, you need to pay more. With monthly or yearly subscription renewals and other packages, paying for a good virtual meer software costs a lot. 

This leads to sometimes virtual meetings being more expensive than physical meetings.   Learn More:- How To Save More Time and Money Working Remotely💻📱🧑🏠  

• Privacy And Security Issues

The breach of privacy and security is one of the major concerns of virtual meetings. 

As the meeting participants often use their personal devices while attending virtual meetings from their homes or remote locations, any security compromise can result in a loss of sensitive private data. 

The security of meeting clients is another issue. With the use of many software for virtual meets, any security vulnerabilities or hacking of software gravely compromises the participant’s data. 

Moreover, it may become difficult to exchange confidential information in a virtual meeting as the communication channel may not be secure. Organisations need to constantly remain up-to-date on meeting security for a safe and secure virtual meeting environment.

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• Difficult To Organise In Case Of Poor Technological Infrastructure

Facilitators may find virtual meetings difficult to organise because not everyone has technology or physical resources. You can find it difficult to go to a meeting when you are hiking in remote mountains or in a warzone where the internet has been cut off. 

• Problems Due To Lack of Technological Understanding

Many people in today’s society still don’t understand how remote connectivity, particularly virtual technology, works. Because people do not understand how to use the technology, this limits a larger acceptance of virtual meetings.

It could be a big negative for organisations or uneducated individuals by introducing new software and technology for productive virtual meetings.

Best and Easiest Online Virtual Meetings Platforms

• Calendly – Meeting Scheduling Calendly is a calendar app that allows you to schedule appointments , meetings, and events. Calendly is probably the most user-friendly scheduling tool available. Calendly encrypts everything it sends and receives, both in transit and rest.
• Zoom – Video Calling Zoom is a well-known video conferencing platform that is well-known for its user-friendliness. The free version of Zoom’s software allows registered users to host meetings with up to 100 attendees. Meeting recordings are available in the Zoom Cloud, including unlimited storage in the Enterprise package.
• Slack – Communication and File Sharing Slack is a business messaging platform that links individuals to the information they require. Slack changes the way businesses interact by bringing individuals together to work as one united team.

We can conclude that virtual meetings have both benefits and drawbacks. The question is whether the benefits of the virtual meeting offset the drawbacks it may have for your organisation. The answer may be different for each organisation. 

In short, like any other technology, a virtual meeting can make our meeting interactions efficient and fruitful, but can also inconvenience us due to scheduling, or risk our private data. In the end, however, whether or not to employ virtual meetings depends on the circumstance of an organisation.

People Also Ask (FAQ)

What is the safest online meeting platform.

Zoom is the most secure online conferencing platform that offers users a safe and secure environment. Zoom contains a host control feature and several security measures like meeting encryptions, suspension and expulsion of participants.

What is the difference between a virtual meeting and a face-to-face meeting?

A face-to-face meeting is one in which all participants are physically present at the same location. Meanwhile, a virtual meeting takes place online using video conferencing applications like Zoom, Skype, Meet, etc.

 Why are virtual meetings better than face-to-face meetings?

You can participate in virtual meetings from wherever, including your home. It saves both time and money if you participate virtually through the Internet.

Samir Luintel

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The Advantages and Disadvantages of Virtual Meetings

• by Jielynne Barao on August 18, 2023
• last update on March 22, 2024
• Reading Time: 7 minutes

The emergence of virtual meetings as a prevailing business norm brings forth an indispensable value. In 2022, the value of the global video conferencing market reached up to $7.02 billion, which serves as compelling evidence of their lasting impact. While they may not entirely resolve the challenges of meeting culture, they do offer numerous advantages surpassing traditional in-office gatherings.

Virtual meetings offer transformative changes in meeting dynamics and collaboration structures, making them a vital tool in the modern business landscape. The global video conferencing market size is projected to reach $17.05 billion by 2030.

In the next sections, you will learn more about the virtual meetings’ pros and cons, and some FAQs to help you run a successful virtual meeting.

What is a virtual meeting?

A virtual meeting is a real-time interaction among participants, facilitated through digital communication tools. The meaning of virtual meeting lies in its ability to allow individuals to connect and collaborate remotely, regardless of their physical locations. Through video conferencing, audio calls, and shared screens, they foster effective communication in a convenient and accessible manner.

The real meaning of effective virtual meetings often relies on picking the right technologies to enhance engagement and productivity. These may include web conferencing software, chat functions, and collaborative tools. These meetings bridge geographical gaps, but to be successful, they also require good internet connectivity, clear communication, and adherence to proper meeting etiquette.

What are the types of virtual meetings?

Virtual meetings have revolutionized the way people communicate and collaborate, providing efficient alternatives to traditional in-person gatherings. Four main types of virtual board meetings have emerged, each catering to different needs. Find out about them below:

• Video Conferencing — This enables real-time audio and video communication between multiple participants located in different places. It typically involves the use of webcams, microphones, and internet-connected devices. Video conferencing allows participants to see and hear each other, fostering a more interactive experience compared to traditional audio-only conferencing.
• Web Conferencing — This type encompasses various online communication and collaboration tools. It utilizes features like screen sharing, document sharing, chat functions, and virtual whiteboards, enabling participants to conduct presentations and hold discussions in real-time.
• Webinars — Webinars, short for web seminars, are virtual meetings conducted over the internet, usually in a one-to-many format. They involve a presenter or a panel of speakers delivering a presentation, lecture, or workshop to an audience of attendees. Webinars often include interactive elements like Q&A sessions or polls, allowing participants to engage with the content and the presenter.
• Teleconferencing — Also known as audio conferencing, this involves multiple participants connecting over the telephone or VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). While it lacks visual components like video conferencing, teleconferencing remains a cost-effective way to facilitate discussions, especially when face-to-face interactions are not necessary or feasible.

From the immersive face-to-face interactions facilitated by video conferencing to the seamless collaboration enabled by web conferencing tools, each type offers distinct advantages for efficient virtual interactions. By understanding the various meeting types, organizations can choose the most suitable format for their specific communication needs.

The Advantages of Virtual Meetings

Across borders and time zones, virtual meetings empower businesses and people to connect effortlessly — transcending geographical constraints. Undoubtedly, these meetings offer a multitude of advantages that have transformed modern communication. Find out the benefits of virtual meetings below.

1. Cost-Efficiency

One of the benefits of virtual meetings is their cost-effectiveness. Organizations can significantly reduce expenses associated with travel, accommodation, and venue rentals. By conducting meetings online, companies can allocate resources more efficiently, directing saved funds toward other critical business aspects.

For instance, enterprises can save substantial amounts by avoiding frequent business trips for their employees. On the other hand, startups can make the most of their limited budgets by utilizing virtual meeting platforms instead of renting out-of-budget conference rooms.

2. Time Savings

Virtual meetings can save valuable time for all participants involved. Commuting to physical meeting locations can consume considerable hours, especially when dealing with long distances or congested traffic. With virtual meetings, people can log in from their offices, homes, or any convenient spot, eliminating travel time altogether. This time-saving aspect translates into enhanced productivity and allows professionals to focus more on essential tasks and responsibilities.

3. Flexibility and Convenience

Among the advantages of virtual meetings is that it offers unparalleled flexibility and convenience for attendees. With no geographical boundaries, participants can join meetings from different time zones, making it easier to accommodate global teams and international clients. They can choose the most suitable environment for their engagement, enhancing their comfort and concentration during the meeting.

4. Enhanced Productivity

Through collaboration tools and shared screen functionalities, virtual meetings facilitate seamless information exchange and idea sharing. This promotes more focused discussions, quicker decision-making, and smoother project workflows. For example, a design team working on a project can use screen-sharing to review and provide real-time feedback on design mock-ups, leading to faster iterations and ultimately, expediting the project’s completion.

5. Environmentally Friendly

Emphasizing virtual meetings aligns with eco-conscious practices, as they significantly reduce carbon footprint associated with traditional business travel. The environmental impact of lessened travel includes decreased greenhouse gas emissions, reduced energy consumption, and less waste generation. By adopting virtual meetings, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and contribute to a greener planet.

6. Inclusivity and Diversity

Virtual meetings promote inclusivity by breaking down barriers to physical accessibility. Participants with disabilities or limited mobility can easily attend virtual meetings without facing the challenges of accessing physical meeting spaces. Moreover, diverse teams from different cultural backgrounds and locations can collaborate more effectively, enriching discussions with varied perspectives.

7. Improved Work-Life Balance

Virtual meetings enable professionals to strike a healthier balance between their personal and work lives. By reducing the need for travel and facilitating remote work, individuals can better manage their time, leading to reduced stress and burnout. This work-life balance not only enhances overall well-being but also contributes to higher job satisfaction and employee retention.

The Disadvantages of Virtual Meetings

Virtual meetings have emerged as a cornerstone of modern communication. While undeniably beneficial, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges that come with such meetings. This section explores the disadvantages of virtual meetings, from the technical to communicative aspects.

1. Technical Challenges

Virtual meetings, reliant on internet connectivity and communication tools, are susceptible to various technical challenges. Participants may encounter issues such as unstable connections, audio/video synchronization problems, or software compatibility glitches. These issues can disrupt the flow of discussions, impede effective communication, and create frustration among attendees.

2. Lack of Non-Verbal Cues

Unlike face-to-face interactions, virtual meetings lack the full range of non-verbal cues, such as body language, facial expressions, and eye contact. This limitation can hinder participants’ ability to interpret emotions, attitudes, and intentions accurately. Subtle cues that aid in understanding context and building rapport may be lost, potentially leading to miscommunications and misunderstandings.

3. Distractions and Fatigue

Virtual meetings take place in diverse settings, often beyond the controlled environment of a conference room. Participants may face distractions from household activities, phone notifications, or multitasking on other work tasks. As a result, attention and engagement may be compromised, affecting the overall quality of the meeting.

Moreover, constantly attending back-to-back online sessions can be mentally and emotionally draining for participants, leading to meeting fatigue. The strain of screen time, prolonged concentration, and limited physical movement can result in reduced attentiveness, diminished productivity, and increased stress levels among employees.

4. Potential Security Risks

Virtual meetings come with inherent security risks, especially when conducted through third-party platforms or when sensitive information is shared. Unauthorized access to meetings, data breaches, or phishing attempts are some of the potential security concerns. Organizations need to implement robust security measures, such as using secure meeting links and encrypted communication, to mitigate these risks effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions About Virtual Meetings

Ensuring efficient virtual meetings is paramount in maximizing productivity and collaboration in a remote work environment. In this section, we will address the common questions about virtual meetings, helping you ensure efficiency and engagement.

How can I ensure a successful virtual meeting?

To ensure a successful virtual meeting, it’s essential to create a well-structured agenda with clear objectives. Test the technical setup beforehand to avoid interruptions. Encourage active participation by involving all attendees and fostering an inclusive environment. Establish ground rules for respectful communication and time management to keep the meeting focused and productive.

What are some strategies to overcome technical challenges in virtual meetings?

Some of the best strategies to overcome technical challenges in virtual meetings are:

• Prioritizing reliable internet connections and considering backup communication methods in case of disruptions.
• Keeping software and applications updated to ensure smooth operation.
• Conducting test runs to address any technical issues proactively and minimize interruptions during the actual session.

How can virtual meetings impact team collaboration?

Virtual meetings significantly impact team collaboration by breaking down geographical barriers and allowing global teams to work together effectively. They facilitate real-time communication and idea sharing, leading to faster decision-making and streamlined project workflows. The ability to collaborate remotely fosters a sense of inclusivity, promoting a diverse and dynamic team environment.

Are there any security measures to protect sensitive information during virtual meetings?

Organizations can ensure the safety of their virtual meetings and sensitive information by leveraging advanced security features available in virtual meeting platforms like board meeting software. Key security measures include implementing secure meeting links, using encryption for data transmission, enabling password protection, and restricting participant access. By employing trusted virtual meeting platforms, organizations can fortify the confidentiality of their virtual meetings and safeguard critical information effectively.

What are some creative ways to keep participants engaged in virtual meetings?

Here are some creative ways to keep your meeting participants engaged:

• Employ interactive tools like polls and quizzes to encourage active participation
• Utilize breakout sessions for smaller group discussions to promote collaboration and idea exchange
• Incorporate visual aids like slides, videos, or interactive whiteboards to enhance presentations and maintain interest.
• Encourage open discussions and consider rotating meeting roles to keep attendees invested and motivated throughout the session.

What are the best practices for following up after virtual meetings?

Following up after virtual meetings is essential to ensure effective outcomes. Do so by distributing meeting minutes or summaries promptly to all participants, outlining action items and responsibilities. You can also conduct progress check-ins to track the status of tasks and goals. Also, encourage open communication and provide avenues for feedback to address concerns that may arise post-meeting.

Convene: Your Go-to Board Meeting Software

Amidst the dynamic evolution of modern communication, virtual meetings are reshaping traditional paradigms and ushering in unparalleled efficiency for businesses. Embracing this transformative shift, forward-thinking companies are wholeheartedly embracing virtual board meeting software.

Convene, one of today’s top board meeting software , offers powerful features to optimize collaboration, productivity, and decision-making. This user-friendly solution streamlines meeting processes — reducing preparation time and freeing up resources for value-adding projects. By providing full-system ownership, Convene ensures total control over user management and permissions, safeguarding confidential board materials. Some of Convene’s features that you can experience are:

• Powerful Meeting and Presentation Tools: Elevate boardroom performance with live meeting tools such as Shared Annotations, Laser Pointer Tool, and Page Synchronization, enhancing collaboration and productivity during virtual meetings.
• Voting and Resolutions: Review, annotate, and make decisions anytime, anywhere, on any platform, whether iOS, Android, Mac, or Windows, providing flexibility and efficiency in virtual decision-making processes.
• Action Items and Audit Trail: Promote transparency and accountability with Convene’s comprehensive monitoring of deliverables and activities, facilitating a culture of responsibility within the application and admin portal.
• User-Friendly and Intuitive Interface: Designed for directors and secretaries, Convene’s intuitive interface ensures ease of use, allowing users to master its functions within 30 minutes. Additionally, unlimited training and 24/7/365 global support are available for any assistance.
• Top-Notch Security: Convene adheres to industry-leading security standards, ensuring board confidentiality and regulatory compliance. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, Convene protects against potential threats, guaranteeing the security, availability, and integrity of the system.

Discover the power of Convene and experience seamless virtual meetings for your organization. Book a demo today!

Jielynne is a Content Marketing Writer at Convene. With over six years of professional writing experience, she has worked with several SEO and digital marketing agencies, both local and international. She strives in crafting clear marketing copies and creative content for various platforms of Convene, such as the website and social media. Jielynne displays a decided lack of knowledge about calculus, but proudly aces in literary arts and content marketing.

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Doing presentations online

• First Online: 24 June 2022

Cite this chapter

• Adrian Wallwork 3  

Part of the book series: English for Academic Research ((EAR))

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This chapter answers the following questions. What are the pros and cons of doing presentations online? How important is my appearance? What about my voice and body language? How can I gain and keep audience attention online? How can I have minimal text / diagrams in my slides, but also enable my audience to access a very detailed version of my presentation? Should my slides be different just because I am online? Where can I find tips for using Zoom to help me improve my online presentations? What if I have problems connecting and my audience can only hear me but not see my presentation? What are the typical mistakes of online presentations?

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Wallwork, A. (2022). Doing presentations online. In: Giving an Academic Presentation in English. English for Academic Research. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-95609-7_12

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In-person vs. virtual conferences: Lessons learned and how to take advantage of the best of both worlds

Camila r. guetter.

a Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States

b Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States

i Association of Women Surgeons Publications Committee, United States

Maria S. Altieri

c Penn Medicine/Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Marion C.W. Henry

d University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States

Elizabeth A. Shaughnessy

e University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States

Sadia Tasnim

f Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States

Yangyang R. Yu

g University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States

Sanda A. Tan

h West Florida Hospital, Pensacola, Fl, United States

1. Virtual conferences

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic led to many changes in the world of academia. Due to recommendations for social distancing and institutional travel bans, it had a profound effect on in-person meetings hosted by professional societies. The role of these meetings is important in promoting research, education, and career development, including networking and introduction of new technologies and techniques. Many societies elected to proceed with virtual meetings. Although a suitable alternative, a virtual platform has advantages and disadvantages compared to in-person meetings. As the world emerges through the challenges of the pandemic, professional organizations and participants will face new considerations, challenges, and realities moving forward. Individuals and professional societies have shared some lessons learned from their own experience during the pandemic. 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 In this paper, we examine the changes seen with large virtual conferences along with recommendations for future meetings, including ways to enhance engagement and participation.

Easy accessibility, flexibility and lower costs are some of the several benefits with virtual conferences. Additionally, without the need for travel, they can be more inclusive and potentially leave a lower carbon footprint. In 2008, the average CO 2 emission of one academic presenting a paper at an international conference was 849 kg; academics from more isolated countries emitted up to 1891 kg. 5

The virtual setting eliminates the need for planning out travel time or taking off from clinical responsibilities. 6 Attendees can participate between cases and responsibilities, as content is usually recorded for asynchronous viewing. Individuals can often watch at increased speed of presentations at their convenience. It can also be more friendly for people of introverted personalities to keep up with ongoing education. Additionally, for those opting to join in real-time, the chat functionality allows continuous interaction between multiple audience members for information exchange and polling during the sessions. Virtual conferences also save travel time, costs, and fatigue. They can be cheaper both for the attendees and sponsoring societies, since there is no venue, food, printing, or guest speaker sponsorship. Virtual conferences enable a diverse audience of people from different locations, creating a more robust participation and exchange of ideas.

On the other hand, there are several downsides to the virtual conference. First, audience engagement can be negatively impacted. Although video feeds may increase connectivity it is not possible to determine how many people are actively tuned in at the time of the event. Responding or asking questions virtually is more impersonal and there may be less engagement between speaker and audience. With recorded sessions, the attendee is unable to participate in real time answer and question sessions. Additionally, technical aspects of joining remotely can be challenging. 7 With a more diverse audience from around the world, conference organizers must also consider a wide range of time differences when planning sessions.

There are also less opportunities for networking or collaboration, as well as for meeting with a colleague or mentor. The lack of concurrent sessions and time constraints may also limit the number of abstracts selected for presentations. This could be a potential hindrance to the career development of a young surgeon.For those who are trying to integrate clinical responsibilities with virtual conference attendance, their attention may be easily diverted away from truly participating in the discussions. 6 Concerted effort may be needed to block off clinical time or participation can result in encroachment of personal time, leading to issues with work life integration.

Cost of hosting the meeting may also shift to the audience as industry support may not be available if the vendors are not allowed to present their products. Lack of vendor showrooms can potentially limit introduction of new products to the surgeons.

2. In person conferences

During COVID-19, in person conferences were rare; and even with some hybrid conferences, many participants are unable to attend inperson due to travel restriction. Those who could attend the meeting by driving to the location in personal transportation were met with having to justify exposure to multiple people in a closed indoor environment. Several institutions and hospitals require approval from the higher administration for travel. With limited number of attendees, the benefits usually obtained from inperson meeting is curtailed.

3. AWS virtual conference experience

Here, we describe the experience of the Association of Women Surgeons (AWS) on hosting Annual AWS Conferences, comparing attendance from in-person versus virtual formats. Data on conference attendees between 2017 and 2020 were collected from records of the association. The conferences between 2017 and 2019 were held in an in-person format, while the conference in 2020 was virtual. Data collected included total number of attendees, as well as subdivided by level of training and country of origin.

The total number of conference attendees has steadily increased over time, reflecting the growth of the organization and its membership ( Fig. 1 ). The breakdown between students and residents vs. attendings has slightly varied over time, with no specific pattern identified. The virtual conference setting (year of 2020) did not seem to greatly change the number of attendees (as compared to the ongoing upward trend and expected increase for each year) and the representation of attendees from different levels of training.

Number and percentage of attendees by year of training between 2017 and 2020.

The virtual format of the annual conference led to a significant increase in the number of countries and geographic regions represented. Surgeons and trainees from 10 different countries including the United States attended the conference in 2018. This number increased to 14 in 2019. When the conference was held in a virtual format, this number increased more than two-fold, with 32 countries from all continents represented in 2020.

Heat maps were created showing countries of origin of attendees by conference year ( Fig. 2 ). These were made excluding the United States, given that the much larger representation of US surgeons and trainees impacted the visualization of the breakdown of attendance of international countries. This showed that virtual meetings allowed for more far reaching countries to join the meeting. These numbers do not capture the audience's engagement or satisfaction or their willingness to participate in the future meetings.

Heat maps showing the country of origin of conference attendees in each annual conference (excluding the US).

4. Future directions

COVID-19 initiated the change from traditional in-person meetings to virtual meetings. It has pushed the technology so that all communities around the world can be linked to a meeting. With more global engagement, the silos that are set up before the pandamic can be overcome which will benefit shared surgical education and treatment strategies.

As the world emerges from the restraints of the pandemic, conference organizers should adapt what we have learned from virtual conferences to make future meetings better and not simply return to the traditional in-person only format. At the same time, they should try to address the shortfalls seen in virtual conferences and improve the engagement of attendees and learners. One solution would be to have a hybrid model that allows attendees to choose between traveling to the meeting or attending remotely. To accommodate this, we recommend some solutions to increase audience engagement and improve interaction, and some suggestions to allow for networking and social gathering in-person or virtually.

One recommendation is to make presentation slides that capture the attention of the audience. This includes leaving a section of the slide available for projection of the speaker, allowing the audience to view the speaker. Having a panelist who is dedicated to monitoring and verbalizing comments on the chat function also allows for engagement of those who may not have access to the video feed. Registration codes can be linked to the videos should the registered audience want to view the session at a later time. With imporvement in technology, ability to move into breakout rooms and other functions such as real time polling during the presentation can be incorporated to maintain viewer engagement.

Organizers should encourage and promote the importance of setting aside dedicated time away from clinical work and if the sessions are during evening time, to allow off time between clinical obligations and conference time to allow for downtime and prevent video burnout or encourachiment of personal time. The virtual platform should allow for some vendors to advertise and help support the meeting. Video platforms for the conference should allow vendor advertisements with hyperlinks to the product as a sidebar. This will enable sponsors to showcase the products and proceeds could be used to offset the cost of the meeting as well as promoting new products.

To encourage socialization and networking functions, organizers are encouraged to creatively establish virtual networking events. Projectors or large screens with multiple headphones will allow for those present to also interact with those who are attending virtually. Opening the sessions well ahead of schedule so that people can “chat” and mingle was used during last year AWS meeting. This will not replace in-person networking, but would allow for continued interaction amongst participants with the hope that they will communicate after the meeting. Above all, the conference should tailor their future meetings with conference goals and attendees’ preferences in mind, always relying on attendee feedback for continuous improvement.

Funding source

Declaration of competing interest.

Authors have nothing to disclose financially or have any conflict of Interest.

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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using Google Slides In Presentations

Have you been pondering whether to put time into Google Slides? Google Slides is gaining popularity as an alternative to Microsoft PowerPoint because of innovative features offered by Google. Is it worthwhile to make the change, though? We’ve listed the pros and cons of using Google Slides so you can make a well-informed decision. 

Google Slides offers several advantages, including its web-based availability and collaboration features. Is Google Slides the ideal presentation programme for you? Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages to help you decide.

10 Reasons Why You Should Use Google Slides

Google Slides is a popular cloud-based presentation software among consumers and corporations due to its many advantages. Because of these qualities, it is often considered among the best-presenting programmes available. The top 10 advantages of using Google Slides for creating beckoning presentations are as follows:

• Simple to work with

Collaborative

• Accessible from anywhere
• Highly Cost effective

Wide Choice of Customization

• Adding Multimedia with ease
• Easy to integrate with other platforms by Google
• Accessibility features

Backup of Edits

Simple to work with, accessible from anywhere, highly cost-effective.

Adding Multimedia with Ease

Easy to integrate with other platforms by google, accessibility features.

READ MORE: Microsoft PowerPoint V/s Google Slides

5 Drawbacks Of Using Google Slides For Your Presentations

While there are many advantages of Google Slides, there are also some disadvantages of using this cloud-based presentation software. Users should weigh the pros and cons of Google Slides carefully to determine whether it is the right tool for their needs. Here are the five disadvantages of using Google Slides for presentations:

• Limited offline functionality
• Potential formatting issues
• Security concerns
• Fewer advanced features and customization options
• Dependency on internet speed

Limited Offline Functionality

Potential formatting issues, security concerns, fewer advanced features and customization options, dependency on internet speed, when to choose google slides for presentations.

Google Slides is a great place to start if you’re looking for a free alternative to expensive presentation software. Besides the pros and cons of Google Slides, as discussed above, it is a powerful presentation tool thanks to its intuitive design, cloud-based availability, and collaborative features. Some examples of when it would be a good idea to use Google Slides are as follows:

• Collaborative Projects Made Simple: Whether you’re working on a group presentation or a school project, Google Slides lets multiple participants collaborate and make real-time changes.
• Accessible Online Projects: Since Google Slides is hosted on Google Cloud, it is accessible from any internet-connected device, making it a perfect choice for producing online presentations that can be shared with people worldwide.
• Suitable for Basic Presentations: Because of its user-friendly design, Google Slides is ideal for generating presentations in less time, making it more convenient. 
• Multimedia Integration: Google Slides provides straightforward methods for adding elements such as photographs and videos to presentations, making it an effective tool for organising and illustrating content in a presentation.

MUST READ: Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using PowerPoint In Presentations.

Get the Most Out of Google Slides: Profession-Based Use Cases

Google Slides has become popular as a flexible and user-friendly presenting tool across various professions. We’ve produced a table that covers profession-specific use-cases to help you understand how Google Slides can be utilised for your presentation needs. 

In conclusion, the slides you make for a presentation have the potential to alter the outcome completely. It can liven up even the most mundane of presentation subjects. Therefore, the presentation software you employ is crucial. Your circumstances, needs, comfort level, and money are all factors to consider when deciding on a presenting app. Ultimately, whether to use Google Slides for presentations depends on your specific needs, and weighing the pros and cons of using Google Slides will help determine if it’s the right tool for your job.

Can I Use Google Slides Without An Internet Connection?

Is google slides safe to use for sensitive information, how do google slides compare to other presentation software, is it possible to export a google slides presentation to other formats.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Presentation

Exploring the 'Advantages and Disadvantages of Presentation,' this blog explores how presentations can effectively communicate ideas yet sometimes hinder creativity. It discusses the ease of conveying complex information visually and the potential for engaging audiences but also considers the challenges of over-reliance on visuals and potential misinterpretation.

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Table of Contents  

1) What is a Presentation: A brief introduction 

2) Advantages of Presentations 

3) Disadvantages of Presentations 

4) How to make a successful Presentation? 

5) Conclusion 

What is a Presentation: A brief introduction  

A Presentation refers to a method of conveying information, ideas, or data to an audience using visual aids and spoken words. It is a formal or informal communication tool used in various settings, such as business meetings, educational environments, conferences, or public speaking engagements. 

During a Presentation, the presenter uses visual elements like slides, charts, graphs, images, and multimedia to support and enhance their spoken content. The goal of a Presentation is to engage the audience, effectively communicate the message, and leave a lasting impact on the listeners. You can ace your presentation skill by understanding various presentation skills interview questions and answers . It will expand your horizon to elevate your skills. 

Presentation Skills can be used to cover a wide variety of Presentations, from business proposals and academic research to sales pitches and motivational speeches.The success of a Presentation depends on the presenter's ability to organize the content coherently, engage the audience, and deliver the information in a clear and compelling manner, showcasing strong principles of presentation skills. Therefore, it is essential to understand the elements of presentation .

Unlock your full potential as a presenter with our Presentation Skills Training Course. Join now!  

Advantages of Presentations  

Effective communication  

One of the primary advantages of Presentations is their ability to facilitate effective communication. Whether you're addressing a small group of colleagues or a large audience at a conference, Presentations help you to convey your message clearly and succinctly. By structuring your content and using visuals, you can ensure that your key points are highlighted and easily understood by the audience. 

Visual appeal  

"Seeing is believing," and Presentations capitalise on this aspect of human psychology. The use of visuals, such as charts, graphs, images, and videos, enhances the overall appeal of the content. These visual aids not only make the information more engaging but also help reinforce the main ideas, making the Presentation more memorable for the audience. 

Engaging the audience  

Captivating your audience's attention is crucial for effective communication. Presentations provide ample opportunities to engage your listeners through various means. By incorporating storytelling, anecdotes, and real-life examples, you can nurture an emotional connection with your audience. Additionally, interactive elements like polls, quizzes, and group activities keep the audience actively involved throughout the Presentation. 

Simplifying complex information  

Complex ideas and data can often be overwhelming, making it challenging to convey them effectively. However, Presentations excel in simplifying intricate information. By breaking down complex concepts into digestible and interconnected slides, you can present the information in a logical sequence, ensuring that the audience grasps the content more easily. 

Persuasive impact  

Presentations are powerful tools for persuasion and influence. Whether you're convincing potential clients to invest in your product, advocating for a particular cause, or delivering a motivational speech, a well-crafted Presentation can sway the audience's opinions and inspire action. The combination of visual and verbal elements enables you to make a compelling case for your ideas, leaving a lasting impact on the listeners. 

Versatility in delivery methods  

Another advantage of Presentations lies in their flexibility and versatility in terms of delivery methods. Gone are the days when Presentations were limited to in-person meetings. Today, technology allows presenters to reach a wider audience through various platforms, including webinars, online videos, and virtual conferences. This adaptability makes Presentations an ideal choice for modern communication needs. 

Enhanced understanding and retention  

When information is presented in a visually appealing and structured manner, it aids in better understanding and retention. Human brains process visuals faster and more effectively than plain text, making Presentations an ideal medium for conveying complex concepts. The combination of visual elements and spoken words create a multi-sensory experience, leading to increased information retention among the audience. 

Professionalism and credibility  

In professional settings, well-designed Presentations lend an air of credibility and professionalism to the presenter and the topic being discussed. A thoughtfully crafted Presentation shows that the presenter has put effort into preparing and organising the content, which in turn enhances the audience's trust and receptiveness to the information presented. 

Take your Presentations to the next level with our Effective Presentation Skills & Techniques Course. Sign up today!  

Disadvantages of Presentations  

Time-consuming  

Creating a compelling Presentation can be a time-consuming process. From researching and gathering relevant information to designing visually appealing slides, a significant amount of effort goes into ensuring that the content is well-structured and impactful. This time investment can be challenging, especially when presenters have tight schedules or are faced with last-minute Presentation requests. 

Technical glitches  

Presentations heavily rely on technology, and technical glitches can quickly turn a well-prepared Presentation into a frustrating experience. Projectors may malfunction, slides might not load correctly, or audiovisual components may fail to work as expected. Dealing with such technical issues during a Presentation can disrupt the flow and distract both the presenter and the audience. 

Overdependence on technology  

In some cases, presenters may become overly reliant on the visuals and technology, neglecting the importance of direct engagement with the audience. Overloaded slides with excessive text can make presenters read directly from the slides, undermining the personal connection and interaction with the listeners. This overdependence on technology can lead to a lack of spontaneity and authenticity during the Presentation. 

Lack of interactivity  

Traditional Presentations, particularly those delivered in large auditoriums, may lack interactivity and real-time feedback. In comparison, modern Presentation formats can incorporate interactive elements; not all Presentations provide opportunities for audience participation or discussions. This one-sided communication can lead to reduced engagement and limited opportunities for clarifying doubts or addressing queries. 

Public speaking anxiety  

For many individuals, public speaking can be a nerve-wracking experience. Presenting in front of an audience, especially in formal settings, can trigger anxiety and stage fright. This anxiety may affect the presenter's delivery and confidence, impacting the overall effectiveness of the Presentation. Overcoming public speaking anxiety requires practice, self-assurance, and effective stress management techniques. 

Not suitable for all topics  

While Presentations are an excellent medium for conveying certain types of information, they may not be suitable for all topics. Some subjects require in-depth discussions, hands-on demonstrations, or interactive workshops, which may not align well with the traditional slide-based Presentation format. Choosing the appropriate communication method for specific topics is crucial to ensure effective knowledge transfer and engagement. 

Accessibility concerns  

In a diverse audience, some individuals may face challenges in accessing and comprehending Presentation materials. For instance, people with visual impairments may find it difficult to interpret visual elements, while those with hearing impairments may struggle to follow the spoken content without proper captions or transcripts. Addressing accessibility concerns is vital to ensure inclusivity and equal participation for all attendees. 

Information overload  

Presentations that bombard the audience with excessive information on each slide can lead to information overload. When the audience is overwhelmed with data, they may struggle to absorb and retain the key points. Presenters should strike a balance between providing adequate information and keeping the content concise and focused. 

How to make a successful Presentation?  

Now that we know the Advantages and Disadvantages of Presentations, we will provide you with some tips on how to make a successful Presentation. 

1) Know your audience: Understand your audience's needs and interests to tailor your content accordingly. 

2) Start with a strong opening: Begin with an attention-grabbing introduction to captivate the audience from the start of presentation .

3) Organise your content logically: Structure your Presentation in a clear and coherent manner with a beginning, middle, and end. 

4) Limit text on slides: Keep slides simple and avoid overcrowding with excessive text; use bullet points and keywords. 

5) Use visuals effectively: Incorporate high-quality images, graphs, and charts to enhance understanding and engagement. 

6) Practice, practice, practice: Rehearse your Presentation multiple times to improve your delivery and confidence. 

7) Be enthusiastic and confident: Show passion for your topic and maintain good eye contact to build trust with the audience. 

8) Tell stories and use examples: Include relevant anecdotes and case studies to make your points more relatable and memorable. 

9) Keep it interactive: Encourage audience participation through questions, polls, or discussions to keep them engaged. 

10) Manage time wisely: Respect the allotted time for your Presentation and pace your delivery accordingly. 

11) End with a strong conclusion: Summarise your key points and leave the audience with a clear takeaway or call to action. 

Conclusion  

All in all, Presentations have altered the way we communicate and share information. While they offer numerous advantages, such as effective communication, visual appeal, and persuasive impact, they also come with their share of disadvantages, including technical challenges and public speaking anxiety. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of presentations and employing best practices, we can Improve Presesntation Skills , create engaging and impactful presentations that leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Want to master the art of impactful Presentations? Explore our Presentation Skills Courses and elevate your communication prowess!  

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How to Create an Interactive PowerPoint Presentation

Table of Contents

PowerPoint presentations are one of the most popular educational resources nowadays. Having been so for quite some time, they might look a bit old-fashioned and not as engaging as we would like. However, there’s a surefire way to make them much more dynamic – create interactive slides.

In this article, you’ll learn what interactive elements you can add to your PPT presentation, how to do this in PowerPoint step by step, and how to keep the audience’s attention by making the learning experience even more exciting and interactive with iSpring Suite. Let’s get started.

What Makes a PowerPoint Presentation Interactive?

3 Ideas for Interactive PowerPoint Presentations

An Easier Way to Create Interactive Learning Materials

There are many ways to make your presentation interactive. Some require only PowerPoint functionalities, while others require a different tool or a PPT add-in. Here are some of the most common ways to add interactivity to your PPT slides:

• PowerPoint triggers and animations
• Multimedia: visual content, audio files, web pages, and videos
• Interactive software simulations
• Mini games  
• eLearning interactions
• Interactive quizzes
• Interactive role-play simulations

3 Ideas for Making Presentations Interactive with PowerPoint

PowerPoint lets you create lots of learning content that will keep your audience engaged, by using functionalities like on-click interactions, pop-up menus, and tests with branching scenarios. Here we’ll show you how to do that and ways to make this process even easier and more effective.

Check out a demo that includes some of these content types:

Follow our step-by-step guides to create one of these content types for your interactive presentation.

Idea #1: PowerPoint triggers for on-click interactions

One of the ways to make your slide interactive is to add a clickable button (trigger) that activates something. For example, it can launch one or more animations simultaneously. See how it works below:

To build such on-click interaction, you’ll need to add animations. Follow these steps:

1. Pick a background image, insert it into your PPT slide, and stretch it so that it fills the slide completely.

2. Add an object that will become the clickable button. This can be an image or a simple shape.

3. Select this object on the slide and click on Format → Selection Pane . Double-click the highlighted object and rename it to Open button .

4. Create two new slide objects (and rename them): a text box and another button. This button will close the pop-up.

5. Open the Selection Pane and select the Open and Close buttons, along with the textbox . Simply hold down the Left Ctrl key and click each of the needed items:

Now go to Animations → Add Animation → Entrance: Fade and then Add Animation → Exit: Fade .

7. To see the entire list of animations on this slide, click on Animation Pane . Here’s how it should look:

8. Now it’s time to set up triggers. Select the Entrance animations for the Close button and the textbox, then click on  Trigger → On Click of and select the Open button shape. What this will do: when the Open button is clicked, the textbox and the Close button will appear.

9. Now repeat the previous step but trigger the exit animations of the same objects by clicking on Close button . Once this has been done, you should see the following in the Animation Pane :

10. There’s one minor thing left to do: when you click the Open button, it should disappear, and when you hit the Close button, it should appear again. How do you make this happen? Simply move the Open button animations under corresponding triggers like this:

And that’s it, your interaction is ready. If you want to enhance the pop-up with visuals, like an image or another textbox, follow the same process and add their animations to the existing triggers.

Idea #2: Single-slide interaction with pop-ups

This second idea expands on the previous one: you can add several slide buttons that will activate pop-ups on the screen. Here’s what it looks like:

To design this type of interaction, you’ll need to create the interaction from the previous idea (or build a new one by following our guide) and then follow the steps below:

1. Create a set of objects for the second pop-up. If you need the same buttons, simply select an object you created earlier, then hold down Left Ctrl and drag it to a different position on the slide – and you’ll get an identical copy. You can also repeat this step with other objects.

2. Then, open Selection Pane and rename the new objects.

3. Now, animate the second pop-up. Press and hold Left Ctrl , then select objects in Selection Pane and add two sets of Fade animations:

4. Trigger the new animations using the same logic from the previous idea. Once finished, Animation Pane should look like this:

5. Your interaction is almost ready. All you still need to do is fix this issue:

As you can see, two pop-ups can now be opened at the same time and it doesn’t look good. To fix this, you need to set your animations so that when you click on “Open button 1,” the second pop-up button disappears, and vice versa. And make them appear again when either of the “Close buttons” is clicked. Here’s what your animation pane should look like:

Now, your interaction should work like this:

And that’s it, your interaction with several pop-up menus is ready!

Idea #3: A quiz with branching scenarios

Another way to make your slides interactive is to add a quiz with clickable answer options. You can also make the test progress differently for each student, depending on the option they select: if the answer is correct, they proceed to the next question; if not, they go to the info slide to dive deeper into the topic. Or you can make it so that a learner receives feedback after each answered question.

Below, you’ll learn the basics of building quizzes and branching scenarios in PowerPoint, which you can further use for creating all sorts of tests – the essentials are the same.

1. Create the title page of the quiz. Add a background image, then type the title of your quiz and its description.

2. Move on to the next slide to add a question and answer options. For the answer options, you can simply use text blocks ( Insert → Text Box ) or shapes ( Insert → Shapes ). You can also add an image if you wish.

Add other question and answer slides for your test in the same way.

3. Create the correct answer slide after your first question. Add a congratulatory message, such as: “Well done!” or “That’s correct!” or “Correct!” Below the message, add a button that will take the learner to the next question.

4. Create the incorrect answer slide. Repeat the same process as in the previous step but add a different text (and an image, if you use them).

If you want to make knowledge checks even more insightful for learners, you can provide them with feedback on each incorrect answer.

Add correct and incorrect answer slides after each question slide.

5. Set navigation for your quiz. Link the correct and incorrect answer options to the relevant feedback slides. Click on the answer text box, then go to the Insert tab and select Hyperlink . In the opened window, select Place in This Document and select the necessary slide.

Then add a hyperlink to the button on the feedback slides. You’ll need to do the same for each slide because feedback slides should lead to a new question every time.

Once you’ve finished setting up navigation, your quiz is ready. If you want to learn more about this topic, read our article on how to make a quiz in PowerPoint .

PowerPoint isn’t designed for creating interactive slides. Yes, it’s possible to do this, but it requires a great deal of time and effort. So if you’re planning to develop such educational content regularly, consider using one of the 23 best PowerPoint add-ins . Some of them, like iSpring Suite , are built for this sort of task and empower you to create better content in less time.

iSpring Suite works as a PowerPoint add-in and provides you with templates and smart functions for designing advanced learning content quickly and easily. You can design interactions, quizzes, educational simulations, and many other content types. Then, you can upload them to your learning management system (LMS) or your online storage (iSpring Cloud) and share them with your learners.

Let’s see how to make your slides interactive using iSpring Suite. Download a 14-day free iSpring Suite trial and follow the steps below to put theory into practice.

Interactions

Open the iSpring Suite tab and go to Interactions. There are 14 interaction templates, such as an FAQ, a timeline, and a diagram. Select one of them, fill it with texts and multimedia, and that’s it – your interaction is ready!

Watch this video to see the interaction development process from A-Z.

And here’s an example of an interaction created in iSpring Suite. It took us only 2 minutes to design it, while a similar interaction in PowerPoint took us at least an hour to create because we had to set up all of the triggers, animations, etc.

Just as with interactions, iSpring Suite has 14 ready-made question templates that you only need to fill with text and multimedia.

Here’s how. Open iSpring Suite, then go to Quizzes and click on Graded Quiz . Then, select a question type and fill it with information. If you wish, you can also add advanced settings, like time limits, the number of attempts allowed, and others.

See the entire routine in our tutorial video:

There’s no need to add separate feedback slides because feedback is already built into each question slide. You can customize it and add reinforcement information.

By the way, even if you don’t have an LMS, you can still share the test with your learners and track their progress – iSpring Suite has a special online storage space for that and the tool will email you the quiz results of your learners.

Here’s an example of a quiz created with iSpring Suite:

Role-play simulations

Role-plays scenarios or educational simulations are one of the most engaging educational activities in online learning. While most interactive tools require programming to create this content type, iSpring Suite enables you to create educational sims easily – even if you have no IT background.

Simply go to Role-Play and click on New Role-Play . Select New Scene . Pick a character and a background image from the library of ready-made content. Add texts. Then repeat the process with other scenes, connect them by dragging an arrow from one scene to another, and that’s it! Your sim is ready.

If you want to dive deeper into this topic, read our in-depth article on role-plays , their types with examples, and a guide and tips on creating them. It’s written by Clark Aldrich, the world’s most experienced designer of educational simulations.

And here’s an example of a role-play that Clark Aldrich created with iSpring Suite:

Now, let’s recap some highlights from this article. Here are the key takeaways.

Can you make a PowerPoint presentation interactive?

Yes, you can add interactive elements to your PPT presentation either by using PowerPoint alone or with additional tools, like iSpring Suite.

What are the interactive features of PowerPoint?

PowerPoint lets you create triggers and animations that make your presentation more interactive.

How do I make my PowerPoint presentation more engaging?

Consider adding interactions, quizzes, triggers, and animations to your presentation to make it more dynamic, engaging, and participatory.

So, these are several ways you can create engaging presentations with PowerPoint only and with other tools (check out this list of the 12 best interactive presentation software tools ). If you want to save time and effort while creating much more engaging and interactive presentations, courses, and assessments, check out iSpring Suite .

Get started with iSpring Suite for free during a 14-day trial period.

Also read:   How to Convert PowerPoint to MP4 Video on Windows & macOS

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9 Disadvantages of Using PowerPoint Presentations!

By: Author Shrot Katewa

If you frequently have to prepare and deliver presentations you normally want to use software that is suitable for the topics you’ll be covering. The software should also allow you to shape the presentation into a style you are comfortable with.

PowerPoint might have been recommended to you but now you are wondering whether a presenting tool with such a lot of features as PowerPoint is not perhaps giving just as many issues.

The biggest drawback of PowerPoint is that it has many features and requires adequate training to use them properly. If not used correctly, it can affect the reputation of the presenter. Other disadvantages include files don’t save automatically, and PowerPoint is not free to use.

In the end, you have to decide whether you can live with these disadvantages when you compare them to the advantages. In this article, we list for your convenience 9 of the most important disadvantages of PowerPoint.

Also Read – Advantages of Using Microsoft PowerPoint!

1. Text-heavy slides

Text-heavy slides give too much information with too much text. This makes the slide boring and the audience will lose interest in the whole presentation.

Many PowerPoint presentations are unsuccessful because the presenter or compiler of the slideshow has tried to put as much content as possible in text form on the slide. A good slide should ideally only have the headings and sub-headings of what the presenter is conveying to the audience.

And if more information in text form is necessary to make it easier for the audience to follow the presenter and comprehend the content, the text should be well organized.

The use of columns or blocks and even different colors will make the slide much more interesting. Unfortunately, the slides of many PowerPoint presentations are not well-designed. 

Compilers of presentations are sometimes in a hurry and just add all the content they‘ve found on the slide without actually designing the slide. They don’t discriminate between really needed content and content that can confuse the audience.

Research has found that text-heavy slides are often used when the presenter just wants to read the information from the slides to the audience, instead of using the PowerPoint slides as a tool to emphasize certain aspects.

2. Too many features can get overwhelming

The PowerPoint developers have over time put more and more features into the software to theoretically make it possible for the compilers of presentations to complete the task without using any other tools or software.  But too many features can confuse the user.

This can cause you to spend a lot of time compiling your presentation, as you first want to look at the available features for every aspect you use and figure out how it works. 

It is overwhelming to have to pick the right feature for literary every aspect of the presentation. This is often the reason provided by users when asked why they don’t use PowerPoint. They prefer software packages with lesser choices but which are easier and simpler to use.

3. Most features usually remain unexplored

Because of the overwhelming effect of the large number of features offered by PowerPoint, most compilers of presentations using PowerPoint simplifies the process when they use it for the first time.

They search for features they understand and which seem easy to use. They then tend to stick to these features and don’t explore other features.  

Many of the slide designing features are for example not fully explored by compilers. Generally, a compiler will search for templates to use and when they have found a few they like, they are not interested in looking for more or designing their own.

PowerPoint users have indicated in surveys that a feature like the adding of video snippets into the presentation is for instance an example of features that usually remain unexplored.    

4. Can affect reputation if not used correctly

The presenter or compiler of the presentation might be trusting PowerPoint to always automatically create well-designed presentations. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

The result can be a presentation with uninteresting and poorly designed slides.  And sometimes the presenter is a very good speaker but an inexperienced PowerPoint user. The combination of a poorly designed presentation with an inexperienced PowerPoint user can affect the reputation of the speaker.

Thus, the bottom line is that a good speaker has to ensure that every slide in the presentation is interesting and conveys just enough information to keep the audience focused.

The presenter should also use the presentation without reading from the screen. Eye contact with the audience is necessary to keep them focused.

5. Real-time collaboration is not the best

Real-time collaboration allows you to work with some of your other colleagues on the same presentation at the same time! This can for example be done with Google Slides. It is a great feature that is especially helpful when working from distant locations or working from home!

Must Read – PowerPoint vs Google Slides: Which Presentation Application Should You Use?

Unfortunately, only the PowerPoint in Office 365 has this real-time feature . If you use any other version of PowerPoint you will not be able to have real-time collaboration.

6. Requires downloading

Another disadvantage of PowerPoint is that you can’t run the application on the cloud as you can do with Google Slides for instance. The Office 365 PowerPoint software is the one exception.

You have to download the PowerPoint software onto your device to be able to use it.

7. Files are not automatically saved

One of the most frustrating things when compiling a presentation is to lose some of the already created slides because they haven’t been saved.  The ideal is that the software saves continuously as you are creating the presentation.

With PowerPoint (except for Office 365) you have to save manually. To ensure that work is not lost, you have to keep on pressing Ctrl+S from time to time. (Ctrl+S is the shortcut for saving a PowerPoint file.)

User reviews indicate that this is also one of the disadvantages that let presentation compilers move away from PowerPoint. In practice, you often just forget to save files manually and unsaved work can easily be lost.    

8. Files often too large to mail

 PowerPoint presentations can quickly become very large. Although you sometimes only want to mail a few files or slides, it often happens that you have to mail the whole presentation. When it exceeds the 10 MB or 25 MB file size it becomes difficult and sometimes impossible to mail.

9. A variety of errors can occur

Although the many features of PowerPoint might be an advantage for some users, the possibility of errors is very high when there are such a large number of features built into a program.  Presentations with fewer features normally develop fewer errors.

PowerPoint online support groups are full of questions. All these questions are an indication that users constantly encounter issues or don’t understand how the features work.  If you look at the answers on these forums it becomes clear that in some instances nobody actually has the correct answer.

Compared to other presentation applications there are much more errors when you use PowerPoint. 

Credit to Nakaridore (on Freepik) for the featured image of this article (further edited)

20 Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Learning

Online learning has become an increasingly popular option for individuals seeking to further their education or gain new skills. 

This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of online learning, comparing them to the traditional classroom setting, and provides tips for successful online learning. 

Additionally, we will discuss the future of online learning, including trends and advancements in the field.

• Redaction Team
• February 16, 2024
• Professional Career , Professional Development

Advantages of Online Learning

• Flexibility : Online learning allows students to learn at their own pace and schedule, accommodating busy lifestyles and commitments.
• Accessibility : Students can access learning materials and participate in classes from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need for physical attendance.
• Variety of Courses : Online learning offers a wide range of courses and programs, allowing students to choose subjects that align with their interests and career goals.
• Cost-Effectiveness : Online education often costs less than traditional in-person classes, as there are no expenses for commuting or campus facilities.
• Convenience : With online learning, there's no need to commute to campus, saving time and resources.
• Personalized Learning : Online learning platforms often provide personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs and preferences.
• Global Learning Opportunities : Online courses enable students to connect with instructors and classmates from around the world, fostering a diverse and global learning environment.
• Interactive Learning : Many online courses incorporate interactive elements such as multimedia presentations, discussion forums, and virtual simulations to enhance learning engagement.
• Accessible Resources : Online learning platforms offer a wealth of resources, including videos, e-books, and online libraries, enhancing the learning experience.
• Skill Development : Online learning equips students with valuable digital literacy and time management skills, which are increasingly essential in today's digital world.

Disadvantages of Online Learning

• Lack of Face-to-Face Interaction : Online learning lacks the in-person interaction and collaboration found in traditional classroom settings, potentially leading to feelings of isolation.
• Technical Challenges : Online learning requires a stable internet connection and proficiency in using digital tools, which may pose challenges for some students.
• Self-Motivation Required : Without the structure of regular in-person classes, online learners must possess strong self-discipline and motivation to stay on track with their studies.
• Limited Social Interaction : Online learning may limit opportunities for social interaction and networking with peers and instructors, impacting the overall learning experience.
• Dependence on Technology : Technical issues or system failures can disrupt online learning sessions, causing frustration and hindering the learning process.
• Potential for Distractions : Students learning online may face distractions from their home environment, such as noise or interruptions, affecting their focus and concentration.
• Quality of Instruction : The quality of online courses and instruction may vary, depending on the institution and instructors, leading to inconsistent learning experiences.
• Adaptation Challenges : Some students may struggle to adapt to the online learning format, particularly those accustomed to traditional classroom environments.
• Limited Hands-On Experience : Certain subjects or disciplines may require hands-on learning experiences that are challenging to replicate in an online setting.
• Assessment Integrity : Ensuring the integrity of assessments and exams in online learning environments can be more challenging compared to traditional in-person settings, raising concerns about academic dishonesty.

Flexibility in scheduling

One of the greatest advantages of online learning is the flexibility it offers in scheduling. Unlike traditional classroom settings, online classes allow students to attend classes from anywhere, at any time. This means individuals can pursue their education while still juggling work, family, or other commitments.

Access to a wide range of courses and programs

Another benefit of online learning is the vast array of courses and programs that are available, showing advantages of online classes. Online education platforms offer an extensive range of subjects, allowing students to access courses that may not be available in their local area. This opens up opportunities for individuals to explore new interests and develop new skills by enrolling in online classes in 2024.

Opportunity for self-paced learning

Online courses often provide the opportunity for self-paced learning. This means that students can progress through the material at their own speed, allowing them to spend more time on challenging topics while breezing through concepts they already understand. This personalized learning experience can enhance the overall learning outcomes.

Lack of face-to-face interaction

One clear disadvantage of online learning is the lack of face-to-face interaction with instructors and fellow students, underscoring cons of online learning. While online platforms may offer chat rooms or discussion boards, it is not the same as being in a physical classroom where immediate interaction and feedback are readily available, illustrating a con of online learning. This can hinder the learning experience for those who thrive in social learning environments, pointing out disadvantages of online classes.

Limited social interaction and networking opportunities

Related to the lack of face-to-face interaction, online learning also limits social interaction and networking opportunities. In a traditional classroom setting, students have the chance to meet and collaborate with fellow students, forming connections that can extend beyond the duration of the course. Online learning platforms may offer virtual networking opportunities, but they often cannot replicate the same level of engagement.

Potential for technical issues

One significant drawback of online learning is the potential for technical issues. Students who rely on technology for their courses may encounter problems such as internet outages, software glitches, or hardware malfunctions. These technical issues can disrupt the learning process and cause frustration, especially if deadlines are looming.

Online Classes vs Traditional Classes

When considering whether to pursue online classes or traditional classes, it is essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option. Online learning offers flexibility and access to a wide range of courses, but it lacks in-person interaction and networking opportunities. On the other hand, traditional classroom settings provide immediate feedback and social interaction, but they may be less accommodating to individuals with busy schedules or limited access to educational institutions.

A comparison of the benefits and drawbacks of online and traditional classroom settings

Online classes provide the flexibility to learn from anywhere at any time, while traditional classes offer face-to-face interaction and immediate feedback. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice should depend on individual preferences and circumstances.

What to consider when choosing between online and traditional classes

When deciding between online and traditional classes, it is essential to consider factors such as learning style, time availability, and the desired learning environment. Some individuals thrive in online settings, while others prefer the structure and social interaction offered by traditional classrooms. Thinking about personal preferences and goals can help make an informed decision.

Tips for Successful Online Learning

To make the most out of online learning, it is crucial to adopt strategies for staying motivated and engaged in online courses. Additionally, effectively managing time and resources in the online learning environment is essential for success.

Strategies for staying motivated and engaged in online courses

1. Set specific goals and create a study schedule to stay organized. 

2. Actively participate in online discussions and forums to enhance engagement. 

3. Find a dedicated study space that is free from distractions. 

4. Break down coursework into manageable tasks to prevent overwhelm. 

5. Seek support from instructors or classmates when needed.

How to effectively manage time and resources in the online learning environment

1. Prioritize tasks and create a schedule to manage time effectively. 

2. Utilize online tools and resources to streamline the learning process in an online environment. 

3. Take advantage of time-saving techniques such as note-taking apps or online research tools. 

4. Practice self-discipline and avoid procrastination, a common challenge for students taking online classes. 

5. Develop effective study habits and techniques that work best for individual learning styles.

Future of Online Learning

The future of online learning looks promising, with continuous advancements in technology and educational platforms. Here are some trends and potential impacts we can expect:

Trends and advancements in online education

1. The integration of virtual reality and augmented reality in 2024 for immersive learning experiences has transformed the online environment. 

2. Gamification of online courses to enhance engagement and motivation for online students. 

3. Artificial intelligence-powered personalized learning algorithms for tailored educational experiences.

4. Increased collaboration between educational institutions and online platforms.

The potential impact of online learning on traditional educational institutions

Online learning has the potential to disrupt traditional educational institutions, highlighting both the advantages and disadvantages of online classes. As online programs become more reputable and accessible, traditional institutions may need to adapt and incorporate online components into their offerings to remain competitive. Additionally, online learning can provide opportunities for individuals who may not have access to traditional education due to geographical limitations or other constraints.

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Online Education – Advantages and Disadvantages

• by Refresh Science
• December 22, 2021 January 22, 2023

Online education is very popular recently due to this pandemic situation. All educational institutions starting practicing online courses considering the safety of the students. There are both advantages and disadvantages in online educations. let us see about them in detail:

Pros of Online education

Time management:.

Time management is one of the major pros of online education. Because most of the students spent lot of time in travelling especially in metro cities.

Various courses are covered under one roof. This is also related to time management. Where students are in a need to move to various locations for their respective classes.

Due to the above mentioned reasons students can learn wide courses in a short duration.

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Affordable:

Online education is cost efficient. It is like a one time investment i.e. buying a laptop or a tablet. Other than that the cost of the online courses are very affordable compared to normal coaching classes.

It is very convenient and flexible not only for students but also for the parents to take care of the kids. The students can study at comfort at their home .

Online course are very much interactable since each students are monitored individually compared to classroom courses. Therefore the ability to concentrate in the subject is also increased.

It helps in improving self discipline among students. It also helps in self motivation which results in higher productivity.

Multi tasking:

Online courses are a boom to people’s who discontinued their studied for the purpose of career. Since it is flexible one can concentrate both in studies as well as in career.

Students can spent more time in their area of interest or in hobbies and also interact with people who is having same area of interest with great knowledge anywhere across the country.

Techno impact:

Since it is a virtual mode of training it is very simple and easy to understand even very complex topics. We can say that the methodology of teaching has changed as per students wish.

Other advantages:

So far we have seen the advantages of online education from students point of view. There are also more advantages other than above mentioned, let’s check it:

Online education is more advantageous to educational institution as the maintenance cost is totally reduced. Maintenance includes cost of classrooms, Electricity cost , Water cost, cost of study materials, house keeping charges and so on.

Teachers also prepare for their course in form of soft copies which can be used for future courses which reduces time and it is long-lasting.

Most of physical classroom demands are reduced such as desk, paper, pen etc.. since it is digitalized it is completely paperless.

For working parents it is very easy to make their kids concentrate on studies and take care of them. Since students are present at home all days and they can learn at flexible time duration at the convenience of the parents.

Cons of Online Education

We all know as a coin has two sides there are also two sides for online education. let’s see the cons of online education:

• Online education is not available at ease for many students. Mainly for students from rural areas. Because it requires high internet speed which is not available in rural areas.
• There are also students who cannot afford for costly electric gadgets used for class.
• Students are isolated from the outer world. They are hooked up in single room with the technology in front of them. The students are not even interested in exploring the outer world.
• As the students are isolated they become more stressful which causes many health issues.
• Technology not only teaches good things it paves way for many bad things too. There is a chance for students to get distracted by using unwanted sites.
• If there is any technical issues then it will be a huge loss for the students. There is a chance for them to miss the class or not able to attend the class until rectifying it.
• Online class means more screen time therefore there is a chance for eyesight related issues.
• Due to social isolation students lack communication skills.

• Only theoretical skills are well developed and there is a lack in practical skills. If it is a physical classroom practical training will also be provided simultaneously.
• There is a tremendous reduction in physical activities among the students. Whereas in classroom coaching separate time is allotted for the purpose of drills or yoga etc.
• During exam time it is difficult for the examiner to avoid cheating by the students. Only if the student is self disciplined the exam will be in a fair manner else there is more chance for malpractice.

As we know Online education is one of the big life saver during this pandemic situation . Parents are worried about the safety of the children and not ready to send them to educational institutions. They are also worried about the education of the children. Due to online education both the safety of the students as well as education is balanced.

Below are some online learning sites which you can refer:

• Cloudacademy
• Pluralsight

4 thoughts on “Online Education – Advantages and Disadvantages”

Thanks for the presentation!

Please keep tips to remember also I amnot able to remember from more than 4 days

And also it d best but pls fix it which I told before

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JSP vs Servlet: Which Is Right for You?

Learn about the key differences between JSP and Servlet and the benefits and drawbacks of each to find the right Java technology for you.

Jakarta Server Pages (JSPs) and Jakarta Servlet are types of Java technology used to create dynamic web applications. While these technologies are similar in their applications, each software has a distinct set of use cases and boundaries that differentiate it from the others. 

Understanding each type of application, along with its advantages and disadvantages, can help you make informed decisions when determining which will best suit your purposes, whether professionally or personally.

What is JSP?

Formerly known as Java Server Pages, Jakarta Server Pages (JSP) is a Java-based collection of technologies that allow you to write data-driven web content and insert Java into HTML pages. It combines writing markup with back-end interaction and creates JSP tags (either with HTML or XML) with JSP Actions and commands. When conceptualising JSP, you can consider it an extension of HTML programming. JSP allows you to modify HTML pages by embedding Java code, making it possible to create content that will change based on factors such as the date, time, and user input.

Once you translate this code into a Jakarta Servlet, you can execute it within the platform. You couldn’t do otherwise because HTTP servers cannot directly run Java web applications. Otherwise, you would have to forward Java applications to Java application servers. However, with JSPs, you can streamline the process and make it more straightforward.

Advantages of JSP

JSPs are translational between the web server and the Java scripts. JSP is considered an easy-to-learn application and is often the preferred technology when developing websites and other web applications. Typical advantages of JSP for web developers include these:

Easy access to standard objects and actions when coding

Code does not require translation between operating systems

Uses a simplified, syntax-based scripting language

Easily maintainable for future code use

Ability to mix static HTML code with dynamic Servlet content

Saves static and dynamic code in separate parts

Allows tag-based programming

Takes care of exception handling

Easy to access Java components such as Java APIs, JNDI, JDBE, and EJB

Allows for faster execution than many dynamic languages

Uses JSP in Java EE

Easy to use for non-Java programmers

Disadvantages of JSP

While many advantages of JSP exist, especially for non-Java programmers, you must recognise its disadvantages. Commonly considered disadvantages include the following:

Speed is slow because of the need to translate JSP to Java code before compiling

Can only deal with an HTTP request

Difficult to debug and trace errors

Lack of advanced features 

Database connectivity can be an issue

Limited to HTML format output

Requires more storage on the server than on other pages

What is Java Servlet?

Java Servlet is a Java programming module for developing web-based applications and extending a web server's ability to host applications. It is a common alternative to Common Gateway Interface (CGI) programs and can be used to create platform-independent and component-based web applications. 

Java Servlet extends server capabilities through a request-response model. Web developers often use this technology to take advantage of Java's full features, as they can use Servlet to communicate with applets, databases, and other software using RMI and socket mechanisms. Servlets act as middlemen, receiving requests from applications and databases, processing them, and responding to them as HTTP and HTML pages. 

Advantages of Servlet

A web-based programmer may choose Servlet over JSP for several reasons. Servlet typically requires advanced Java knowledge and may be less suited for novice programmers. Consider the following advantages of Servlet:

Enables rapid development through access to Java libraries

Faster than CGI scripts or JSPs

Able to use with many Java-based vendors

Provides large sets of Java-compatible application programming interfaces (APIs) 

Platform independence and easy development

Easy coordination between multiple Servlets

Web browser does not constrain usage

Only one copy of Servlet loads into Java Virtual Machine (JVM)

Disadvantages of Servlet

When considering whether Servlet or JSP is right for you, consider the following disadvantages of Servlet:

Requires advanced Java knowledge to use it effectively

Implicit objects are not efficiently utilised ( must develop additional code)

Exception handling needs to be specifically coded

Challenging to write HTML code in Servlet programming

Need Java Runtime Environment (JRE) to run Servlets

Requests are threads, not processes

Designing Servlets slows down the application

Does not allow separate presentation logic from business logic (HTML versus Java code)

Code is less readable than JSP code

Does not allow tag-based programming

JSP vs Servlet: Things to consider

Web-based professionals must consider several key differences between JSP and Java Servlet when choosing the proper programming tools. For example, modifying JSP is more straightforward, while alterations in Servlet require reloading, recompiling, and restarting the server.

Other key differences to consider include:

Differences in programming language styles also relate to differences in function. JSP is slower than Servlet due to the need for translation and compilation before you can run it. JSP is also limited to HTTP protocol requests, while Servlet can receive protocol requests of all types. JSP can also use implicit objects and automate exception handling, while Servlet requires additional code and specification.

Another key difference is that JSP can separate business and presentation logic, while Servlet requires you to combine and present the logic. JSP relies on JavaBeans technology, allowing web pages to use JavaBeans. Servlet, on the other hand, uses specific APIs designed for use with the software. When executing programs, you can execute Servlet on web servers, while you must compile JSP in Servlet before implementing it.

How to determine which is right for you

Determining which platform is right for you will involve careful consideration of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of technology. Consider your expertise in computer programming, specifically Java, and how this may relate to your ability to use this software. Both programming languages are helpful tools for creating dynamic web content.

In general, JSP is best suited for developing view content and designing applications that rely more heavily on HTML code, using the presentation layer to help the application and user interact more effectively. Servlets are often used as controller classes and are more applicable when designing and developing a web application's business layer. The business layer is between the presentation and data access layers and involves business logic, security, and supporting site architecture.

To learn more about each application and its uses, consider top courses on Coursera, such as Java Servlet Pages (JSPs) by LearnQuest. You can also broaden your knowledge and ability to work with Java in Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals from Duke University.

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This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

The Disadvantages of Online Shopping

May 25, 2016

160 likes | 665 Views

In a previous article, I have detailed the many wonders and advantages of online shopping. With so much time spent online, shopping for clothes online certainly provides you with an avenue for convenience and ease when it comes to doing some clothes purchasing.

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Presentation Transcript

The Disadvantages of Online Shopping In a previous article, I have detailed the many wonders and advantages of online shopping. With so much time spent online, shopping for clothes online certainly provides you with an avenue for convenience and ease when it comes to doing some clothes purchasing. And though we have chronicled quite a considerable number of benefits that can be gleaned from doing your shopping online, it is an inevitable fact that for every advantage comes with an equally disappointing disadvantage. When it comes to obtaining merchandise from the Internet, there is one rule: all that glitters is not all gold. You may be invariably enticed with the unbelievably cheap prices, the unique design that is, unfortunately, unavailable in your local retail store or the prospect of doing all your shopping in your sweatpants and without having to leave the confines of your house. But, it would also be worthy to note that over the years since there has been a significant exodus of traditional retail shopping towards online shopping, more and more horror stories have been cropping up: Late deliveries, orders never getting shipped, items looking drastically different than the one promised online, wrong size—the list goes on. So whether you are shopping for wholesale clothing to potentially start an online clothing shopping emporium or shopping for personal consumption, it is best to contemplate on the potential dangers and disadvantages of online shopping. This is so that you can weigh your options and choose the best course to take when it comes to shopping for clothes. If you are reconsidering an important purchase or rather ambivalent on shopping online, here are some disadvantages that will aid you in coming up with an informed decision.

1.) DEPENDING ON WHERE THE ITEM IS LOCATED, SHIPPING COSTS MAY BE RATHER EXORBITANT This needs no further elaboration as shipping fees are usually shouldered by the buyer and more often than not when an item has to be shipped internationally shipping costs may be rather expensive. Sure, you are willing to pay the hefty price for a unique piece of clothing but at other times, you may fall into the trap of paying more for the shipping than for the item itself. Although, there are websites that waive shipping fees but only after you have spent a considerable amount of money so it would be best to check the shipping cost before you checkout your desired item. Do not let the excitement of having a new and rare item cloud your judgment on budgeting. 2.) DELAYED GRATIFICATION One takeaway about online shopping is the certain delayed gratification that occurs. Buying merchandise from a physical retail store ascertains you instant gratification where you can try on the item and use it on the same day you purchased it whereas buying something online would have to mean waiting for a few days to a couple of weeks or even months again depending on location. Instant gratification may be a great advantage to buying items from a physical retail store, but perhaps it would make you appreciate your purchase so much more when you have to wait for it. 3.) YOU CANNOT TRY IT ON True enough, you are given various size charts which you can refer to when it all comes down to choosing the right size for you. However, no size chart will ever give you an assurance that the outfit will look great on you. One thing about size charts is that they are basically approximates—apart from that, no two size four or size five girls would roughly have the same proportions and would look the same in one same blouse. Some size 2 girls may have bigger busts or broad shoulders–this is why trying on clothes before buying them is rather imperative. And because buying online does not give you this option, this may be the biggest disadvantage there is in buying clothes online. 4.) CREDIT CARD SCAMS Unsavory websites which would pilfer sensitive information from you do exist and sometimes they are under the guise of online shops. When this occurs, you may find yourself with a compromised credit card and may have to pay for things you have not purchased all through a phishing scam online. This is a reality online, so when transacting

with various online shops, exercise extra caution especially when an online shop does not offer you any cash options. 5.) DAMAGE When you have your merchandise shipped, you run the risk of having your goods damaged. It is a possibility and there is not much you can do in order to avoid it. Just pray and hope that the company you ordered from is rather lenient with returns. When you are doing your shopping online, be selective and be wary and have a discerning eye for items that you are looking to purchase. Though online shopping may have some certain disadvantages, do not let them outweigh the obvious benefits it also has. Likewise, when you are shopping online, just keep a keen eye out and make sure you trust the company you are purchasing from.

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Jessica Grose

Get tech out of the classroom before it’s too late.

By Jessica Grose

Opinion Writer

Jaime Lewis noticed that her eighth-grade son’s grades were slipping several months ago. She suspected it was because he was watching YouTube during class on his school-issued laptop, and her suspicions were validated. “I heard this from two of his teachers and confirmed with my son: Yes, he watches YouTube during class, and no, he doesn’t think he can stop. In fact, he opted out of retaking a math test he’d failed, just so he could watch YouTube,” she said.

She decided to do something about it. Lewis told me that she got together with other parents who were concerned about the unfettered use of school-sanctioned technology in San Luis Coastal Unified School District, their district in San Luis Obispo, Calif. Because they knew that it wasn’t realistic to ask for the removal of the laptops entirely, they went for what they saw as an achievable win: blocking YouTube from students’ devices. A few weeks ago, they had a meeting with the district superintendent and several other administrators, including the tech director.

To bolster their case, Lewis and her allies put together a video compilation of clips that elementary and middle school children had gotten past the district’s content filters.

Their video opens on images of nooses being fitted around the necks of the terrified women in the TV adaptation of “The Handmaid’s Tale.” It ends with the notoriously violent “Singin’ in the Rain” sequence from “A Clockwork Orange.” (Several versions of this scene are available on YouTube. The one she pointed me to included “rape scene” in the title.) Their video was part of a PowerPoint presentation filled with statements from other parents and school staff members, including one from a middle school assistant principal, who said, “I don’t know how often teachers are using YouTube in their curriculum.”

That acknowledgment gets to the heart of the problem with screens in schools. I heard from many parents who said that even when they asked district leaders how much time kids were spending on their screens, they couldn’t get straight answers; no one seemed to know, and no one seemed to be keeping track.

Eric Prater, the superintendent of the San Luis Coastal Unified School District, told me that he didn’t realize how much was getting through the schools’ content filters until Lewis and her fellow parents raised concerns. “Our tech department, as I found out from the meeting, spends quite a lot of time blocking certain websites,” he said. “It’s a quite time-consuming situation that I personally was not aware of.” He added that he’s grateful this was brought to his attention.

I don’t think educators are the bad guys here. Neither does Lewis. In general, educators want the best for students. The bad guys, as I see it, are tech companies.

One way or another, we’ve allowed Big Tech’s tentacles into absolutely every aspect of our children’s education, with very little oversight and no real proof that their devices or programs improve educational outcomes. Last year Collin Binkley at The Associated Press analyzed public records and found that “many of the largest school systems spent tens of millions of dollars in pandemic money on software and services from tech companies, including licenses for apps, games and tutoring websites.” However, he continued, schools “have little or no evidence the programs helped students.”

It’s not just waste, very likely, of taxpayer money that’s at issue. After reading many of the over 900 responses from parents and educators to my questionnaire about tech in schools and from the many conversations I had over the past few weeks with readers, I’m convinced that the downsides of tech in schools far outweigh the benefits.

Though tech’s incursion into America’s public schools — particularly our overreliance on devices — hyperaccelerated in 2020, it started well before the Covid-19 pandemic. Google, which provides the operating system for lower-cost Chromebooks and is owned by the same parent company as YouTube, is a big player in the school laptop space, though I also heard from many parents and teachers whose schools supply students with other types and brands of devices.

As my newsroom colleague Natasha Singer reported in 2017 (by which point “half the nation’s primary- and secondary-school students” were, according to Google, using its education apps), “Google makes $30 per device by selling management services for the millions of Chromebooks that ship to schools. But by habituating students to its offerings at a young age, Google obtains something much more valuable”: potential lifetime customers.

The issue goes beyond access to age-inappropriate clips or general distraction during school hours. Several parents related stories of even kindergartners reading almost exclusively on iPads because their school districts had phased out hard-copy books and writing materials after shifting to digital-only curriculums. There’s evidence that this is harmful: A 2019 analysis of the literature concluded that “readers may be more efficient and aware of their performance when reading from paper compared to screens.”

“It seems to be a constant battle between fighting for the students’ active attention (because their brains are now hard-wired for the instant gratification of TikTok and YouTube videos) and making sure they aren’t going to sites outside of the dozens they should be,” Nicole Post, who teaches at a public elementary school in Missouri, wrote to me. “It took months for students to listen to me tell a story or engage in a read-aloud. I’m distressed at the level of technology we’ve socialized them to believe is normal. I would give anything for a math or social studies textbook.”

I’ve heard about kids disregarding teachers who tried to limit tech use, fine motor skills atrophying because students rarely used pencils and children whose learning was ultimately stymied by the tech that initially helped them — for example, students learning English as a second language becoming too reliant on translation apps rather than becoming fluent.

Some teachers said they have programs that block certain sites and games, but those programs can be cumbersome. Some said they have software, like GoGuardian, that allows them to see the screens of all the students in their classes at once. But classroom time is zero sum: Teachers are either teaching or acting like prison wardens; they can’t do both at the same time.

Resources are finite. Software costs money . Replacing defunct or outdated laptops costs money . When it comes to I.T., many schools are understaffed . More of the money being spent on tech and the maintenance and training around the use of that tech could be spent on other things, like actual books. And badly monitored and used tech has the most potential for harm.

I’ve considered the counterarguments: Kids who’d be distracted by tech would find something else to distract them; K-12 students need to gain familiarity with tech to instill some vague work force readiness.

But on the first point, I think other forms of distraction — like talking to friends, doodling and daydreaming — are better than playing video games or watching YouTube because they at least involve children engaging with other children or their own minds. And there’s research that suggests laptops are uniquely distracting . One 2013 study found that even being next to a student who is multitasking on a computer can hurt a student’s test scores.

On the second point, you can have designated classes to teach children how to keyboard, code or use software that don’t require them to have laptops in their hands throughout the school day. And considering that various tech companies are developing artificial intelligence that, we’re meant to understand, will upend work as we know it , whatever tech skills we’re currently teaching will probably be obsolete by the time students enter the work force anyway. By then, it’ll be too late to claw back the brain space of our nation’s children that we’ve already ceded. And for what? So today’s grade schoolers can be really, really good at making PowerPoint presentations like the ones they might one day make as white-collar adults?

That’s the part that I can’t shake: We’ve let tech companies and their products set the terms of the argument about what education should be, and too many people, myself included, didn’t initially realize it. Companies never had to prove that devices or software, broadly speaking, helped students learn before those devices had wormed their way into America’s public schools. And now the onus is on parents to marshal arguments about the detriments of tech in schools.

Holly Coleman, a parent of two who lives in Kansas and is a substitute teacher in her district, describes what students are losing:

They can type quickly but struggle to write legibly. They can find info about any topic on the internet but can’t discuss that topic using recall, creativity or critical thinking. They can make a beautiful PowerPoint or Keynote in 20 minutes but can’t write a three-page paper or hand-make a poster board. Their textbooks are all online, which is great for the seams on their backpack, but tangible pages under your fingers literally connect you to the material you’re reading and learning. These kids do not know how to move through their day without a device in their hand and under their fingertips. They never even get the chance to disconnect from their tech and reconnect with one another through eye contact and conversation.

Jonathan Haidt’s new book, “The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness,” prescribes phone-free schools as a way to remedy some of the challenges facing America’s children. I agree that there’s no place for smartphones on a K-12 campus. But if you take away the phones and the kids still have near-constant internet connectivity on devices they have with them in every class, the problem won’t go away.

When Covid hit and screens became the only way for millions of kids to “attend” school, not having a personal device became an equity issue. But we’re getting to a point where the opposite may be true. According to the responses to my questionnaire, during the remote-school era, private schools seemed to rely far less on screens than public schools, and many educators said that they deliberately chose lower-tech school environments for their own children — much the same way that some tech workers intentionally send their kids to screen-free schools.

We need to reframe the entire conversation around tech in schools because it’s far from clear that we’re getting the results we want as a society and because parents are in a defensive crouch, afraid to appear anti-progress or unwilling to prepare the next generation for the future. “I feel like a baby boomer attacking like this,” said Lewis.

But the drawbacks of constant screen time in schools go beyond data privacy, job security and whether a specific app increases math performance by a standard deviation. As Lewis put it, using tech in the classroom makes students “so passive, and it requires so little agency and initiative.” She added, “I’m very concerned about the species’ ability to survive and the ability to think critically and the importance of critical thinking outside of getting a job.”

If we don’t hit pause now and try to roll back some of the excesses, we’ll be doing our children — and society — a profound disservice.

The good news is that sometimes when the stakes become clear, educators respond: In May, Dr. Prater said, “we’re going to remove access to YouTube from our district devices for students.” He added that teachers will still be able to get access to YouTube if they want to show instructional videos. The district is also rethinking its phone policy to cut down on personal device use in the classroom. “For me,” he said, “it’s all about how do you find the common-sense approach, going forward, and match that up with good old-fashioned hands-on learning?” He knows technology can cause “a great deal of harm if we’re not careful.”

Jessica Grose is an Opinion writer for The Times, covering family, religion, education, culture and the way we live now.