Skype is definitely an essential tool for any primary classroom. It is a FREE software program that can be downloaded to your computer and allows you to make FREE voice calls anywhere in the world to fellow Skypers. If you have a camera attached to or embedded into your computer then you also have the added benefit of being able to see the person you're calling. This tool is really straightforward. It is simple to download, sign-up for and use, making it ideal for all age groups. I believe if your student can use a phone, they will be able to use this tool.
Being an avid traveller, this tool has allowed me to keep in contact with friends and family abroad and interstate. It has also proved beneficial from a university context as one lectureer chose to contact and communicate with us via Skype as he was frequently travelling.
From a classroom context, Skype can be used in a multitude of ways that promote collaboration, authenticity and open-mindedness. From communicating with students abroad about a particular topic to listening to an 'expert' discuss information, Skype is an invaluable tool to have in the classroom.
Pauline White has conducted a good SWOT analysis of this tool and has included a useful website about ways to use Skype in the classroom. I have had a further conversation with Pauline regarding this tool and you can view this on her blog by clicking here.
Happy Skyping!
Being an avid traveller, this tool has allowed me to keep in contact with friends and family abroad and interstate. It has also proved beneficial from a university context as one lectureer chose to contact and communicate with us via Skype as he was frequently travelling.
From a classroom context, Skype can be used in a multitude of ways that promote collaboration, authenticity and open-mindedness. From communicating with students abroad about a particular topic to listening to an 'expert' discuss information, Skype is an invaluable tool to have in the classroom.
Pauline White has conducted a good SWOT analysis of this tool and has included a useful website about ways to use Skype in the classroom. I have had a further conversation with Pauline regarding this tool and you can view this on her blog by clicking here.
Happy Skyping!
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