Webcast Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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webcast
[หwษbหkรฆst ]
Definition
broadcasting method
A webcast is a media presentation streamed over the Internet. It allows live or recorded content to be broadcast to an audience, providing a means for real-time interaction. Webcasts are often used for corporate communications, academic lectures, or virtual events, giving participants the ability to engage from remote locations. This format combines audio, video, and presentation slides, making it an effective tool for conveying information to a wide audience.
Synonyms
internet broadcast, online broadcast, web seminar.
Examples of usage
- The company hosted a live webcast to unveil their new product.
- Students can participate in a webcast of the lecture from anywhere.
- The conference was accessible via a webcast for those who couldn't attend in person.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'webcast' was first used in 1995, combining 'web' from the World Wide Web and 'cast' from broadcast.
- Early webcasts were primarily text-based, evolving to include audio and video as technology improved.
- The first significant webcast occurred in 1993, where a live performance by the band Severe Tire Damage was streamed.
Technology
- Webcasts utilize streaming technology to deliver content in real-time or on-demand, allowing viewers to watch from anywhere.
- The rise of social media platforms has made webcasting more accessible, enabling anyone with an internet connection to broadcast their events.
- Webcasting often uses platforms like YouTube Live, Zoom, and Facebook Live, which provide various features for interaction.
Education
- Webcasts have transformed traditional education, allowing institutions to offer courses remotely through live classes and recorded sessions.
- They enable educators to reach a wider audience, transcending geographic barriers and offering learning to anyone with internet access.
- Interactive webcasts can include features like polls and Q&A sessions, enhancing student engagement and participation.
Business
- Many companies use webcasts for product launches, making presentations accessible to global audiences instantly.
- They are also used for training sessions and internal meetings, allowing companies to save time and resources by reducing travel.
- Webcasts can help businesses build a brand presence, engage with customers, and provide real-time updates.
Culture
- The growth of eSports has led to a rise in webcasts specifically focused on gaming tournaments that attract millions of viewers.
- Art galleries and museums have embraced webcasts to virtually showcase exhibitions and engage with audiences during special events.
- Various cultural discussions and conferences are now webcasted, enabling participation from people who cannot attend in person.
Origin of 'webcast'
The term 'webcast' is a portmanteau of 'web' and 'broadcast', emerging in the late 1990s as the internet gained popularity. The first use of the term is attributed to its application in the streaming media format that allowed audio and video data to be transmitted over the web. As technology advanced, webcasts evolved from simple audio streams to sophisticated audiovisual presentations, enabling companies and educators to share information in real-time. The rise of multimedia content on the internet further propelled the use of webcasts as a preferred method for reaching audiences, leading to the widespread adoption of this format for everything from corporate meetings to entertainment events.