Main Features: Skype is an instant message, voice chat, and video chat service that is free when used between other Skype members. At its most basic level Skype provides an instant messaging system similar to Facebook chat or AOL Instant Messenger. However to get the most out of Skype, one would most likely need some kind of microphone/headset such as: http://tinyurl.com/3u9by7q , and ideally some sort of web camera as well.
Level of Difficulty: Skype is extremely easy to use considering how useful it can be. The most difficult part is not even in using the program itself, instead it is buying and installing the necessary accessories to use it effectively. Those who are interested in using it just need to make sure that they buy a headset and camera that is compatible with their computer and install the necessary software. Once all the accessories are all set up, it is just a matter downloading the program directly from the Skype website, adding contacts, and essentially that’s all there is to it.
Potential Classroom Applications: Skype is a great way for students and teachers to communicate outside of the classroom (especially in online classes). Students can collaborate with each other by using the program for projects, note sharing, leaving messages for one another, and really anything you can really think of. It is also a way for students to keep in touch with their teachers. Teachers and students can set their availability status for appropriate times to talk.
Conclusions: Skype is very easy to use and a cost effective way to keep in touch with classmates regardless of the distance. It has the flexibility to be as formal or informal as you need it to be and is a worthwhile tool for teachers to consider when attempting to build a classroom community for either a physical or online classroom. Even if you aren't interested in using it for a classroom, it is still a useful tool to learn to keep in touch with friends and family across long distances.
Skype is a fantastic resource. There are endless possibilities. Students can talk to anyone in the world whether it be other students or experts in a particular field of research. My mother uses it to read to my daughter when she doesn't get a chance to see her.
ReplyDeleteThe only "problem" I have had with it is that I have experienced it freezing a lot mid-conversation. I haven't used it in a while though so maybe that was resolved.
I have never used Skype, but it sounds great. I do not have a web cam, so that is one reason why I have never used it. I can see how it would be a great classroom resource. The ability to work with students or teachers without being at the same location is executed much easier with Skype. I look forward to trying it sometime.
ReplyDeleteI am on my way to becoming a Spanish teacher and I recognize the importance of communicating and using the target language. As it may be difficult to find native speakers in our area, Skype offers somewhat endless possibilities for students to connect with native speakers and practice using the language. You must know the person and or his or her email address in order to Skype with them, correct? It is not just a database (like Match) where people can just sign in and search for a particular person, right? I am not so much worried about my students not finding a person to Skype with because I have friends who are native speakers who would be willing to Skype with my students. Still, it would be great if there was such a tool that allowed people to search for what they are looking for, such as a "native Spanish-speaking adolescent from Mexico who would be willing to converse with a Spanish student about soccer and athletics in general." Who knows...maybe such a resource does exist!
ReplyDeleteI remember my friend telling me about a website that does just what you are looking for April, I wish I could remember what it was. If i ever think of it I will let you know, keep looking!
ReplyDeleteHi Edward,
ReplyDeleteI never thought of Skype as a digital tool for classroom use until now. If a teacher were sick, she/ he could do a lecture via Skype! Or teachers could get remote guest speakers to give class lectures over Skype if the school had such capabilities. These days, new technologies are constantly pushing the limits of our ingenuity and creativity. As teachers, we should be sure to harness these devices to make the classroom a more comfortable and interactive space.
-Jasmine
Edward,
ReplyDeleteI think this has incredible potential for use in the classroom. With all the budget cuts, I can see schools using this to take "fieldtrips" all over the world.
Debbie
Hi Edward, thanks for sharing on Skype. I use Skype as well and think it can be a very valuable tool. As someone who is going into teaching social studies, I think Skype could be a great way to connect students with history around the world. A project may be to have students interview someone in Pearl Harbor via Skype in the classroom. There are a lot of possibilities.
ReplyDeleteHi Edward,
ReplyDeleteThanks for making me rethink about a tool which I already use, just not for academics. Certainly a great way to have people from far away speak to the class, maybe an expert who is not local, or a native of a place we are learning about.
I also like the way to communicate with students. You can have a way to talk to them if they need help outside of class without having to give out your phone number.