Multidisciplinary Experiences at University Degrees in the Use of Synchronous e-Learning

In an increasingly technological milieu, new technologies are appearing and can be integrated into different aspects of education, not only in those subjects strictly related to technology, but also in other settings. In this framework, the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV) has acquired different elearning platforms since the early 2000 ́s. Initially, PoliformaT, a Sakai-based platform, was extensively introduced among the lecturers of the UPV. However, despite its suitability for sharing information between lecturers and students, its asynchronous nature prevents an efficient interaction between both, which may difficult the learning process. As an alternative, Poli[ReunióN] (Adobe Connect-based online service), a new synchronous e-learning platform, has been recently introduced in the UPV. Poli[ReunióN] provides virtual sessions chaired by the lecturer and collaborative learning sessions, where interaction between lecturers and students is enabled by means of audio/videoconferences and software application sharing. Thus, Poli[ReunióN] offers the opportunity to plan new educational experiences where technology may help to achieve new learning objectives. Nevertheless, the main concern regarding this tool is the lack of experience of UPV lecturers because of its novelty. To check its usefulness we have performed a multidisciplinary experience involving a wide range of subjects of UPV degrees: Private Telecommunication Systems (degree in Telecommunications Engineer), Algorithms and Data Structure (degree in Computer Sciences), English for Foreign Tourism (degree in Tourism), and Genetics and Plant Breeding (degree in Agriculture Engineer). Pros and cons of the use of Poli[ReunióN] in different learning activities proposed in the mentioned degrees are discussed from both the lecturers and the students’ point of view. These experiences may help lecturers and other professionals of education in implementing similar e-learning tools.