This semester marks a turning point in the Sy Syms School of Business, as students from both uptown and midtown campuses can attend the same class simultaneously -- at least in a digital sense. One class per week, Financial Statement Analysis, taught by Dean Charles Snow, is transmitted live using video conferencing technology from Belfer Hall to the midtown campus. In a conversation early this semester with the Dean, he expressed his optimism about the value-added aspects that video conferencing has to offer, and believes it will open the door to a richer academic environment for students.

The interactive videoconferencing setup connects the class given at the uptown campus to the midtown campus. Since students can attend classes on both campuses simultaneously, the technology will greatly broaden the scope of classes available to take. Although the current system's poor technology leaves much to be desired, the school is using this class as a trial before investing further.

One of the main advantages that videoconferencing has to offer is the opportunity for live dialogue to take place between parties in different parts of the world. If videoconferencing is successful, it can do much more than just double the class selection. Dean Snow envisions the possibility of students taking summer classes over the Internet, so they won't have to stay in New York. He also hopes to import speakers from Israeli businesses via the Internet to give classes on the Israeli banking system.

Some professors and students, however, prefer the small classroom setting typical of Yeshiva. Professors often encourage class discussions, and they appreciate and even find it rewarding to have the ability to reach out and get to know their students. In regard to this, Dean Snow did say that there are certain "bells and whistles" regarding these concerns, but the right technology will solve this problem.

Until recently, typical classroom technology consisted mainly of PowerPoint presentations, movies or slides. Video conferencing has many uses all over the world, from connecting people having regular conversations to conducting formal meetings. In many ways, the introduction of video conferencing to educational institutions can have the same impact that the Internet has on the individual. It is likely that video conferencing will play a role in the future of higher education, and Dean Snow thinks that the "school needs to experiment with technology."