Exploring New Technologies: Skype Sharenia Hunter Valerie Robinson EDD 7914 Curriculum Teaching and Technology

What is Skype? Software-based internet telephone and video service that allows free calls computer to computer over the internet (Michel & Chang, 2011). Calling seeing, messaging, and sharing with others whenever…where ever (Skype, 2013) Free Download video and voice calls to anyone else on Skype Instant messaging and file sharing

Advantages & disadvantages Voice over internet protocol Teleconference to remote areas Free (Morgan, 2013) Distortions in video and voice quality Skype users may pay attention to their own image rather than the speaker (Morgan, 2013) Plus Minus

Uses of Skype in the Classroom Author Visits Guest Speakers Global Connections Collaboration with other Classrooms

An author Visit by Skype Go to “authors who Skype” Find an author that you would like to Skype with your class. Authors can provide a 20 minute Skype Session (Free!) Can be used to motivate reading

An Authors’ Skype This is a picture of Kate Messner’s class doing a Skype Chat with Laurie Halse Anderson.

Skype and the Assure Model 1. Analyze learners- Student interest inventory, multiple intelligence survey, Benchmark data, etc. 2. State standards and objectives-Design lessons around Skype to meet state standards for students. 3. Select strategies, technology, media and materials- Incorporate use of a PC computer lab, LCD projector, SMART board. 4. Utilize technology, media, and materials- Throughout the lesson the LCD and SMART Board will be utilized for demonstrations and student practice using the Skype software. 5. Require learner participation- Form cooperative learning groups, create and perform Skype projects to demonstrate knowledge of software. 6. Evaluate and revise-Use of rubrics, peer review and teacher commentary.

Use Skype to learn 3 ways to connect with others: Online Skype Communities- The Mixxer and ePals Global Community software. Global Skype Projects- project-based learning exchanges to develop science, math, and literacy skills. Skype in Education Directory- video conferencing classrooms.

Skype: resources SKYPE for Dummies http://www.dummies.com/how- to/content/using-skype-at-school.html SKYPE for Educators http://www.skypeforeducators.com/educators 50 Awesome Ways to Use SKYPE in the classroom http://www.teachingdegree.org/2009/06/30/50 -awesome-ways-to-use-skype-in-the-classroom/ Using SKYPE in the classroom http://www.teachhub.com/using-skype- classroom

Five Classroom Skype Tips Check to see if there is a block for Skype Locate speakers that relate to the curriculum that will enhance classroom learning activities. If Skype is blocked, find a way around it like a flash drive software download, When setting up sessions, keep in mind time limitations and schedules of the guests. Test all equipment such as webcam, speakers, monitor, computers, etc. (McCrea, 2013).

References Mc Crea, B. (2013). Skype takes students where no school bus can go. Technological Horizons In Education. 39(5), 18.   Michel, B. & Chang, C. (2010). Attending a presentation at a distance in real-time via skype. Teach Trends. 55(1), 1-27. Morgan, H. (2013). Using skype for exciting projects. Childhood Education. 89(3), 197. Skype. (2013). [Computer Software]. Retrieved from www.skype.com, Microsoft.