NEW YORK NURSE: October 2009
A webinar is a coined term that simply means “web-based seminar.” Webinars continue to grow in popularity as they offer a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to attend live presentations or lectures via the Internet.
NYSNA’s Education, Practice and Research Program (EPR) has added webinars to the online educational services available to members. “We are excited about this new communication tool,” said Lesley Cashman-Peck, Program Associate, EPR. “We expect that members will enjoy attending live webinars and self-paced (on-demand) educational trainings, which can be completed on their own schedules.”
A key feature of the webinar is interaction between the learner and the presenter for a true exchange of information. In many instances, the presentation is “live,” and the presenter can share presentation slides and other resources, respond to questions, chat, poll the audience, and create virtual breakout rooms. Students can attend the live webinar from anywhere with Internet access and a phone line. If the session is recorded, users can access the information at a later date. Webinars also permit participants to attend “virtual meetings,” which can be a cost-saver for companies.
If you are just getting your feet wet with webinars and their capabilities, you might want to check out NYSNA’s “Webinar Basics,” a 21-minute presentation designed to provide an introduction to the online meeting environment. This recording is best suited for individuals who have participated in fewer than five webinars. You can access it by visiting https://nysna.webex.com and clicking on “Recorded Sessions.” A password and member i.d. is not required. EPR is currently developing continuing education programs in webinar format, so be sure to visit the site often to see what’s new.