With the rise of remote and hybrid learning, virtual classroom platforms have become essential tools for educators and learners around the world. In this presentation, we will explore the top 10 virtual classroom platforms that are expected to dominate the market in 2023.
We will provide an overview of each platform's features, pricing, and user experience, as well as their strengths and weaknesses. We will also highlight some of the trends and innovations that are shaping the future of virtual classroom technology, such as artificial intelligence, gamification, and social learning.
Whether you're a teacher, student, or instructional designer, this presentation will help you make informed decisions about which virtual classroom platform to use for your educational needs. By the end of this presentation, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the leading virtual classroom platforms and their potential to enhance teaching and learning in the digital age.
So, join us as we explore the top 10 virtual classroom platforms in 2023 and discover which one is right for you!
3. 10
MeritHub - MeritHub is a virtual classroom solution to deliver live, online
classes with audio/video communication, whiteboards, chat, screen
sharing, and content sharing.
09
Electa Live - Electa Live lets you join interactive virtual classrooms, take
part in lectures and discussions, and access a wealth of educational
resources.
08
Learncube - With Learncube, teachers can create custom lesson plans,
track progress, and connect with students in real time, all from a single
platform.
4. 07
Vedamo - With Vedamo, teachers can create virtual lessons, host
webinars, and connect with students in real time, all from the comfort of
their own devices.
06
Kaltura - Kaltura sparks collaboration and creativity, empowering users to
share, create, and distribute video content with ease.
05
BigBlueButton (BBB) - BigBlueButton brings people together from all
corners of the globe, connecting them through the power of video
conferencing and collaboration.
04
Google Classroom - This easy-to-use app integrates seamlessly with
other Google apps and is easy to use for managing assignments,
communicating with students, and tracking progress.
5. 03
Adobe Connect - Adobe Connect brings the power of the office to your
fingertips, allowing you to meet, present, and collaborate with ease.
02
Zoom - Zoom helps bring people together in a virtual world, connecting
friends, family, and coworkers through the magic of video conferencing.
01
BrainCert - BrainCert is a powerful and versatile platform for delivering
online education and training. It's designed to provide an intuitive and
user-friendly interface that makes it easy for educators and trainers to
share their knowledge with a global audience.
6. PROS CONS
Has a good student engagement
capability with interactive
whiteboard, breakout rooms, and
online polls
Some users may find the interface outdated or cluttered
and overall experience may not be very smooth. Some
objects may look like they're missing on mobile devices
because Whiteboard only supports a 4:3 aspect ratio.
Provides a feature to store and
share content, homework,
assignments, and track all
activities including attendance
MeritHub Virtual Classroom platform may be lacking
several essential tools and features compared to other
virtual classroom platforms. The missing features include
group screen sharing, code editor, Advanced LaTex
equations (comes with a basic tool), WolframAlpha, cloud
document integrations, and a limited number of interface
languages (only English supported, whereas other leading
virtual classroom platforms like BrainCert supports up to
50 languages). There is also no option to stack videos at
the bottom of whiteboard.
Has analytics and reporting
capabilities
Lesson recording in MP4 format.
Developer API ready.
Attendees have restricted access and cannot be granted
individualized access to each tool.
The security posture has not been documented and
MeritHub is currently not SOC 2 Type II & ISO 27001
certified, which are often mandatory for enterprise level
companies to conduct business.
Merithub is a web-based virtual
classroom software that offers a
wide range of features for online
learning. Merithub virtual
classroom comes with
audio/video conferencing, an
interactive online whiteboard,
teacher and student management
tools, scheduling and booking
capabilities, drawing and
annotation tools, screen sharing,
breakout rooms, and the ability to
record lessons in MP4 format.
Cost: $$$$
7. PROS CONS
Cross-platform compatibility.
Includes advanced features such
as breakout rooms, online polls,
and surveys.
There is no option to choose a specific data center location
for hosting classes. Some users may find the interface
overwhelming or cluttered.
Has a comprehensive Learning
Management System (LMS)
component for scheduling and
tracking student progress.
Pricing may be higher compared to other virtual classroom
software options.
Screen, camera and whiteboard cannot be shared at the
same time.
Can't use interactive PowerPoints and doesn't support
standard cloud integrations to bring document to the
whiteboard.
Has analytics and reporting
capabilities.
Provides session recording
feature.
Attendees have restricted access and cannot be granted
individualized access to each tool.
The security posture has not been documented and Electa
is currently not SOC 2 Type II & ISO 27001 certified, which
are often mandatory for enterprise level companies to
conduct business.
• Electa Live virtual classroom is a
cross-platform solution for online
learning.
• Offers standard tools like file
sharing, interactive whiteboards,
annotation tools, and screen
sharing.
• Advanced features include
breakout rooms, online polls and
surveys, and integration with
Google Drive.
• Session recordings and analytics
capabilities are available for
performance analysis and
improvement.
Cost: $$$$
8. PROS CONS
Built-in whiteboard and interactive
tools for interactive learning.
Has analytics and reporting
capabilities.
Some users may find the interface clunky or hard to navigate.
Also, Learncube is not a complete white-label solution. There is
no option to choose a specific data center location for hosting
classes.
Learncube integrates with Twilio
and Agora SDKs, acting as their
green and blue servers. This allows
users to switch between the two.
The audio & video quality is better,
thanks to Twilio and Agora.
Some objects may look like they're missing on mobile devices
because Whiteboard only supports a 4:3 aspect ratio. Some
features may be lacking for advanced users.
Learncube doesn’t provide video conferencing in full-screen
and no options to stack the videos below the whiteboard.
Developer API ready.
Customizable virtual classroom
design.
Attendees have restricted access and cannot be granted
individualized access to each tool.
The security posture has not been documented and Learncube
is currently not SOC 2 Type II & ISO 27001 certified, which are
often mandatory for enterprise level companies to conduct
business.
The LearnCube virtual
classroom is designed to
deliver the best in providing
online education to businesses
as well as aid them in
streamlining processes related
to online training, class
scheduling, payment
processing, and a number of
activities.
Cost: $$$$
9. PROS CONS
Vedamo supports easy scheduling
and launching of the sessions
The user interface (UI) of the Vedamo virtual classroom looks
outdated and may not appeal some users. Some objects may
look like they're missing on mobile devices because
Whiteboard only supports a 4:3 aspect ratio.
No simulcast support. People joining from mobile devices may
experience audio and/or video difficulties.
This is a browser-based solution
and can be accessed easily without
the need to download any software.
Vedamo Virtual Classroom platform may be lacking several
essential tools and features compared to other virtual
classroom platforms. The missing features include group
screen sharing, a code editor, LaTex equations, WolframAlpha,
Breakout rooms, the ability to save and load whiteboards, cloud
document integrations (with only Google drive supported), and
a limited number of interface languages (8 languages, whereas
other leading virtual classroom platforms like BrainCert
supports up to 50 languages).
Vedamo can integrate with popular
Learning Management Systems
(LMSs) such as Canvas, Google for
Education, Moodle, and Schoology,
making it a convenient option for
educators.
Attendees have restricted access and cannot be granted
individualized access to each tool.
The security posture has not been documented and Vedamo is
currently not SOC 2 Type II & ISO 27001 certified, which are
often mandatory for enterprise level companies to conduct
business.
Vedamo is equipped with a
variety of collaborative tools,
including an interactive online
whiteboard, breakout rooms
for group work, screen sharing
for presentations, and media
sharing for enhanced
engagement
Vedamo has several limitations
and an outdated UI/UX that
may affect the functionality
and flexibility of the platform,
Cost: $$$
10. PROS CONS
Kaltura offers a variety of features
and tools to enhance the learning
experience.
Some users may experience technical difficulties when using
Kaltura Virtual Classroom, such as connectivity issues or
difficulty setting up a classroom.
No simulcast support. People joining from mobile devices may
experience audio and/or video difficulties.
Kaltura offers a range of interactive
tools, such as quizzes and
assessments, to make the learning
experience more engaging for
students.
Kaltura Virtual Classroom platform may be lacking several
essential tools and features compared to other virtual
classroom platforms. The missing features include group
screen sharing, a code editor, LaTex equations, WolframAlpha,
Breakout rooms, the ability to save and load whiteboards, cloud
document integrations (with only Google drive supported), and
a limited number of interface languages (16 languages, whereas
other leading virtual classroom platforms like BrainCert
supports up to 50 languages).
Allows recording of sessions within
the limited recording hours as per
subscription plan, which can be
useful for students who were
unable to attend live, or for future
reference.
API is available only in enterprise plans
Some users may find the interface clunky or hard to navigate.
Attendees have restricted access and cannot be granted
individualized access to each tool.
The platform is 100% web-
based, requiring no Flash,
downloads, or installations, and
offers a wide range of
interactive and collaborative
tools to enhance the learning
experience. These tools include
a digital whiteboard, a content
management system for
sharing presentations and
videos, screen sharing, cloud
recording, breakout rooms,
real-time notes, live quizzes,
and more.
Cost: $$$$
11. PROS CONS
BBB is open-source
software, which means it is
free to use and can be
modified to suit the needs
of users.
Some users may experience technical difficulties when
using BBB, such as connectivity issues or difficulty
setting up a classroom.
As an open-source software, BBB has limited support
compared to other commercial web conferencing
platforms.
BBB allows users to create
their own custom virtual
classrooms that can be
tailored to their specific
needs.
No simulcast support. People joining from mobile
devices may experience audio and/or video difficulties.
The platform currently lacks support for Right-to-Left
(RTL) languages such as Arabic and Hebrew and the
interface remains in the left-to-right orientation.
BBB offers a range of
interactive tools, such as
quizzes and assessments,
to make the learning
experience more engaging
for students.
Attendees have restricted access and cannot be
granted individualized access to each tool.
BBB has limited features compared to other commercial
web conferencing platforms, which may not be suitable
for some users.
BigBlueButton, an open-source
virtual classroom solution, is
designed to help teachers and
students collaborate and stay
engaged.
It offers features like screen
sharing, multi-user whiteboard,
breakout rooms, and easy group
polling to promote collaboration.
Additionally, it integrates with
many popular Learning
Management Systems.
Cost: $$$
12. • Google Classroom streamlines teaching and learning and
allows for secure management and measurement of
outcomes.
• It is a centralized hub that allows teachers to manage
multiple classes and access learning tools.
• The platform is user-friendly for everyone in the school
community.
• Google Meet integration enables teachers to host virtual
classrooms.
• The Stream page on Google Classroom allows teachers to
make important announcements, such as due dates for
homework assignments or upcoming tests, to their students.
13. PROS CONS
Easy to use and
navigate
Limited customization options for class
layout and design.
May require a strong internet
connection to run smoothly.
Integrates with
other Google apps
like Google Drive
and Google Docs
Some features may not be available in
certain countries.
Limited analytics and reporting
capabilities.
Allows for
collaboration and
communication
between students
and teachers
Some users may have privacy concerns
with Google's data collection policies.
The platform currently lacks support for
Right-to-Left (RTL) languages such as
Arabic and Hebrew and the interface
remains in the left-to-right orientation.
14. Adobe Connect is a powerful
web conferencing platform that
is widely used in education.
There are various modules and
layouts for a highly
customizable classroom, along
with a content management
system, quick polls, an
interactive whiteboard, cloud
recording, and an interactive
whiteboard.
Adobe Connect allows users to create their own custom
classrooms that can be tailored to their specific needs.
It also offers a variety of templates that can be used as a starting
point for creating a classroom.
Adobe Connect offers a range of interactive tools, such as quizzes
and assessments, to make the learning experience more engaging for
students.
Adobe Connect is widely adopted in education, and is used by
many universities and educational institutions.
Adobe Connect is compatible with various devices and platforms,
such as Windows, Mac, and mobile devices.
Cost: $$$$
15. Adobe Connect has a bit of a learning curve, so it may take some time for
users to become proficient with all of its features and tools.
The free version of Adobe Connect has limited features and
functionalities, which may not be sufficient for some users.
Adobe Connect can be expensive, depending on the level of service
and features required.
Some users may experience technical difficulties when using Adobe
Connect, such as connectivity issues or difficulty setting up a
classroom.
Attendees have restricted access and cannot be granted
individualized access to each tool.
16. • Zoom is a popular video conferencing and screen sharing tool with
excellent audio and video quality and a user-friendly interface.
• It lacks advanced educational features like interactive whiteboards
and real-time quizzes.
• Security and privacy concerns make it less suitable for sensitive
student data.
• Educators looking for a more comprehensive and secure solution
may want to consider alternative platforms like BrainCert.
Cost: $$$
17. Zoom is user-friendly and
easy to navigate, making it
accessible for people of all
technical abilities.
Zoom offers a free basic plan
and reasonably priced paid
plans, making it accessible
for individuals and small
businesses.
Zoom offers high-quality
video and audio, making
it ideal for virtual
meetings, presentations,
and webinars.
Zoom offers additional
features such as screen
sharing, recording, and
breakout rooms that can be
useful in different scenarios.
Zoom is compatible with
various devices and
platforms, such as Windows,
Mac, iOS, and Android.
18. • Zoom has security and data privacy issues that concern some users.
• Free version has limitations, including a time limit on meetings.
• Hosts have limited control over participants, such as removing or
muting them.
• Zoom requires a stable internet connection for optimal video and
audio quality.
• RTL language support, such as Arabic and Hebrew, is currently
lacking.
• Attendees have restricted access and cannot be granted
individualized access to each tool.
19. Powerful
• Comprehensive and powerful solution for
delivering immersive live classes and
meetings
User-friendly
• User-friendly interface that can replace
traditional physical classrooms
• Ideal for online classes, webinars, or
training sessions
Compatible
• Comes with server-side HD recording,
Wolfram Alpha knowledge engine, LaTeX
equation editor, document editor, code
editor, and poll tool
• Compatible with desktop, iOS, and
Android devices
Packed with 100+ premium
features, including interactive
whiteboards, group screen
sharing, breakout rooms, and
more
Cost: $$
Seamless integration
Seamless integration with BrainCert Unified
Training Platform and other websites, CMS, or
LMS using Virtual Classroom API
20. BrainCert's SD-SWN™
network offers the lowest
latency, high availability,
resiliency, and stable
connectivity with guaranteed
99.995% uptime
With Simulcast, BrainCert
offers the best quality video
streams by adapting to
varying bitrate and changing
network conditions
Developer friendly REST
API available to
integrate the virtual
classroom with any
website, LMS, CMS or
app.
Complete white-label
solution –- Provides full
branding, SSL certificate,
and custom API endpoint.
Virtual Classroom sessions
can be hosted in 10 low-
latency WebRTC edge
locations worldwide.
BrainCert comes with
enterprise-grade security,
SOC 2 Type II & ISO 27001
certification, GDPR & HIPAA
compliance, and
extensibility to deliver
bespoke solutions on a
single unifying platform
21. The free version of
BrainCert has limited
features and virtual
classroom minutes.
No dial-in phone
numbers. Offers only
web-based conferencing
At first glance,
features may seem
overwhelming
22. • In-person and virtual classrooms are more accessible in today's digital
age.
• Educational institutions have a responsibility to make learning more
inclusive by using interactive content and versatile tools.
• BrainCert is a cloud-based virtual training software that offers a wide
range of options for interactive virtual classrooms.
• BrainCert features include video conferencing, screen sharing, breakout
rooms, and online whiteboards.
• BrainCert empowers teachers and instructors to conduct highly engaging
online sessions.