"...no differences were found between video and FTF groups." The article shows that CMC performance is very similar to FTF--this suggests to me that recorded Skype conversations (or similar recorded online CMC work) could serve as a good way to practice and assess interpersonal communication skills.

I see this benefit--giving voice to students who might normally not speak because of shyness or because of a few dominant personalities in the class--as one of the main benefits of online video/comment tools like VoiceThread.

I have not tried this tool, but it sounds like a great combination of things--embedded videos, plus the ability to add quizzes. I am imagining being able to create something like a google-docs quiz or EdPuzzle, and embed within the context of a larger discussion of a topic. This might help to show how one activities fits into a broader unit.