I was first introduced to Skype a couple of years ago when I took a two week training on Distance Learning. I have had an account ever since. I use Skype for when I am involved with video conferencing but have not used it personally. I know that my grandmother is on Skype and calls my sister all the time. I have yet to tell her that I also have an account. Talking to her on the phone is just fine. lol.
I found Skype to be an excellent resource for broadening our students’ minds. It also teaches them about life in other regions or other countries. I know that our social studies and ELA departments use Distance Learning for these reasons. This technology also allows teachers and students the avaibility to contact and communicat with schools and individuals all over the world. I do know that our ELA department at the end of each year hosts a Poety Slam. This Poety Slam involves all the students from all over our district. They write an orignial poem and then complete with other schools through skyping and distance learning. It is a big production and the kids have a blast.
Here are also some other examples of different Skype projects that can be implemented in school:
Foreign language classes talking with students in other countries
Science classes discussing research with a scientist
Literature classes discussing a book directly with the author
Art classes “visiting” a gallery
History classes in different schools comparing historical events in their home states
Two schools playing an educational game
Teacher professional development seminar
Music classes “meeting” a particular artist, composer, or conductor
Health classes debating or discussing issues with students in a different part of the country
Virtual book clubs
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