Learn about using this web conferencing tool in your classroom.

1. A Web Conferencing Tool Skype in the Classroom Ashley Webb

2. Skype is basically an online conferencing tool with features such as cheap mobile calling instant messaging free video calling It is FREE and Easy to create an account. Access Skype at www.skype.com About Skype

3. All you need: Web Cam FREE Account Interest in incorporating technology in the classroom

4. There is a new section on the Skype webpage called Skype in the Classroom: http://education.skype.com/ Here you can access an online community of teachers and classrooms interested in using Skype in education. Skype in the Classroom

5. Currently over 13,000 teachers are signed up for this program. From this website you can: Access lesson plans and ideas for using Skype in your classroom Contact other teachers to set up conferences between your classes and theirs Collaborate on lesson plans to add ideas to the Skype community and your classroom Skype in the Classroom

6. Skype can connect classes to other classrooms around the world. Teachers can use Skype to teach students about other cultures, allow students to share their culture, or help them practice communicating in a foreign language. Multicultural Connections http://education.skype.com/

7. Incorporates technology in the classroom Introduces students to other kids around the world Promotes collaboration between teachers and collaboration between students New technology interests students and encourages high student engagement and participation Benefits

8. Discuss the use of this technology with the students before you use it. Explain web conferencing etiquette. Discuss possible lag in communication (pausing after asking a question). Explain that students must remain quiet when it is not their turn to speak so they do not interfere with discussion Instruct the students on what to do if an aspect of the technology experiences technical difficulty. Tips for using skype in the classroom

9. Include the students in the preparation for the web conference. Allow them to look up information about the person/people they will be conferencing with Research an interview subject (authors, experts, etc.) Research background (if talking with a classroom from around the world in a lesson that encourages them to share each others’ cultures) Brainstorm questions and discussion points Prepare questions for an interview Ask students to prepare a list of things they would like to share Tips for using skype in the classroom

10. Condron, A. (2010). Using Skype in the Classroom. Retrieved from Teach Hub: http://www.teachhub.com/news/article/cat/14/item/367 Skype. (2011). Skype in the Classroom. Retrieved from Skype: http://education.skype.com Skype's New Education Site Connects Classrooms Across the Globe. (2011, August 26). Retrieved from Stretch Your Digital Dollar: http://digitaldollar.edublogs.org/2011/04/26/skypes-new-education-site-connects-classrooms-across-the-globe/ References