Skype is a great tool to stay connected with loved ones; business
cooperation’s all over the world use Skype for meetings. Skype is also being
used in the classroom! Teachers around the world are using Skype to help engage
students in learning. When used appropriately Skype can be used as a primary
source of information. There are many ways to integrate Skype into the classroom.
Below is a list of ways that Skype is being used in the classroom.
·
Cultural Exchange: what better way to learn a
new culture than to connect with another classroom around the world. Students
learn from one another, so networking with a different classroom will give your
students a first- hand perspective.
·
Language Skills: Learning a new language can be
difficult, but learning a new language with someone who is a native speaker can
be very engaging and affective.
·
Discovery: Questions are what drives learning.
Talking with a professional astronaut can be a great resource when learning
about outer space and planets. Meteorologists can give students accurate information
on how weather works.
Teachers spend time looking for new and engaging resources
to motivate their students. Skype is a large networking system that connects
educators with one another. Teachers can have their classes interact with one
another, or teachers can rely on each other for information. As a first year teacher
I am open to information that can help me become an effective educator.
Getting started is simple and easy. Skype has created a step
by step video tutorial that helps teachers create an account.
Skype is a great resource for the classroom teacher. The video below shows first-hand how students interact with other classrooms, or people around the world. If you are looking for an engaging tool in the classroom; Skype is a great choice!
