Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Journal #4 Playing with Skype
Weller, T. (2010, March/April). Playing with Skype. Learning & Leading with Technology , 37(6), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=March_April_No_6_1&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4516&ContentID=25508&DirectListComboInd
Using Skype to connect students to professionals is an example of differentiated instruction in the classroom. Weller makes a good point about using technology, “If it makes for a richer educational experience, then it’s worth it.” Skype is an easy to use source of technology that can benefit students in many ways. This keeps the students engaged in a different way of learning because it’s a live feed; both audience and expert can see one another so the students behave in a different manner. The possibilities for using Skype in the classroom are endless given that there are so many occupations to observe and learn from.
Questions:
What type of equipment is necessary for Skype to be used?
The only equipment needed for Skype to be used is a computer with a broadband internet connection, which most schools have, a webcam, a couple of microphones, adapters for the audio feed to pump through the sound system, and a projector screen, which once again is provided in most classrooms. If the equipment wasn’t readily available at the school site, there’s usually a technology coordinator in the district that could be contacted.
How would a teacher use Skype to implement a theme?
The first step would be for the teacher to seek out an expert on the theme, contact them, and then set up a specific time to have the specialist appear. If I didn’t have the proper knowledge on a specific topic, I’d be more than happy to have my class learn from an expert in an interactive environment.
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