Technology Insight

 

For its 2009 educational program the Michigan Apple Association (MAA) embarked on utilizing internet technology to bring educational topics of interest to apple growers.  No driving time required.  Below is information that we have learned along the way that will help bring growers up-to-speed on accessing MAA's offerings.  If you do not have high speed internet at your home or orchard consider looking into using a computer at your local library or Extension office. MAA is researching the option of having completed Webinars available on a DVD for growers who live in areas where high speed internet is not available.

 

Webinar

A presentation, lecture, workshop or seminar that is transmitted over the World Wide Web.  Key feature is its interactive elements; the ability to give, and receive and discuss information.

 

Technology for MAA Webinars...

  • Includes live PowerPoint presentation with audio by sponsor (5 min) and expert speaker (40 min), with an email question and answer session.
  • Requires high speed Internet. Requires working speakers
  • Requires Flash Player from Adobe which is installed on 98% of computers. This is free software. A hyperlink will be provided for downloading or updating this software add-in.
  • MAA Webinars are transmitted utilizing Adobe Connect Pro. A hyperlink for a quick test of your computer is provided below. Please perform this test well in advance of the scheduled Webinar on the computer you will be using for the Webinar. If your computer is not ready, the test will indicate what adjustments may need to be made to your computer system.
  • o http://breeze.msu.edu/common/help/en/support/meeting_test.htm
  • Virus protection software, firewalls or security systems may block your use of Adobe Connect Pro. Please run the above test.
  • Just prior to the Webinar broadcast beginning a short presentation will be given on the use of Adobe Connect and how the audience will input questions. Please logon to the Webinar approximately 5 minutes early.

 

MAA Webinars Logistics...

  • MAA Webinars are a for fee service
  • Michigan growers who join MAA pay less for Webinars
  • Registration at least one week in advance is highly encouraged so you can test the connection and troubleshoot any problems before the day of the actual Webinar. See above.
  • Registration may be made via U.S. Mail or MAA web-site (Pay Pal/credit card). Be sure to provide legible email address on registration form.
  • You will not receive password and user name information in your email from MAA. We provide you with a hyperlink which takes you to MSU Breeze Server where you can read and enter the necessary password and user name information. A test of this should also be done in advance of actual Webinar in case you personally require further instruction.
  • MAA staff 517-669-8353, or education@michiganappleassociation.com are happy to help you.

 

 

 

                        Vodcast

 

A Video Podcast (sometimes shortened to vidcast or vodcast) is a term used for the online delivery of video on demand video.  The term is an evolution specialized for video, coming from the generally audio-based podcast.

 

Key things to know about MAA Vodcasts...

  • MAA Webinars will be captured in the form of a Vodcast for interested individuals that cannot participate at the scheduled broadcast time. The question and answer, observations session will also be provided but person listening/watching the vodcast will not be able to participate.
  • Running time is approximately one hour
  • Purchaser has the flexibility to watch the Vodcast at a time of their choosing.
  • Technology requirements for MAA Vodcasts are the same as MAA Webinars. See above.
  • Registration may be made via U.S. Mail or MAA web-site (Pay Pal/credit card). Be sure to provide legible email address on registration form.
  • Michigan growers who join MAA pay less for Vodcasts.
  • Hyperlink for Vodcast will be emailed to purchaser within 2-3 business days of payment receipt.
  • MAA staff 517-669-8353 or education@michiganappleassociation.com are happy to help you.