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Skype in the K-8 Classroom


 * 1) What is Skype?
 * 2) History of Skype in the Classroom
 * 3) Disadvantages
 * 4) Advantages
 * 5) The Future of Skype
 * 6) Resources

What is Skype?

Skype is a free-to-download program that allows users from across the globe to communicate with each other through either video relay, voice relay, or text-based instant messaging. Skype has many additional features, including the ability to call phone numbers and sending text messages. However, these additional features require payment. Skype also allows for users to be able to conference call, meaning that more than two people can communicate at any given time.

Skype is considered part of "Web 2.0" because it is a user-centered program that was designed to allow its users easier access to information. Skype is very useful both in the classroom and out because it is an easy way to conduct video conferencing - something that is on the verge of becoming mainstream.

The reason that Skype is such an asset in the classroom is simple: it allows for classes to communicate with with other classes and experience each other's cultures while learning a lesson at the same time. Skype also allows for people such as authors, scientists, and other informed adults to speak with a class without actually having to physically be in their presence. Its convenience is the main reason it is such an amazing tool.

History of Skype in the Classroom

Skype is mostly used by teachers to collaborate with other teachers around the world to teach lessons. The video below shows some examples:

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Just recently, on the 14th of December, it was announced that Skype had just surpassed 20,000 educators. This means that 20,000 teachers use Skype in their classrooms to either communicate with other classes across the globe, or to communicate in-school with other students. You can read the full article here.

Possible Issues and Disadvantages of using Skype

Skype can be a great tool in the classroom, but there are some issues that go along with using it. One issue that could arise when using Skype in the classroom is the cost. Although the software itself is free, if one plans on having their students have Skype pen pals, one must consider that in order to get the full Skype experience, a video camera and microphone are required for each computer using Skype. This could be avoided by simply having a computer in the classroom that students can take turns using, thus cutting the cost significantly by just having one video camera and microphone. Another possible issue to consider is the fact that school computers require administrator access to download software. If Skype is not already installed on the computer, it may be tricky, or even impossible to have the program installed. <span style="color: #007cff; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 130%;">Advantages of using Skype

<span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #404040; display: block; font-family: 'trebuchet ms',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%; text-align: left;">There are many advantages of using Skype. The main advantage of Skype is that it allows people to connect with other people around the world. With that being said, Skype is a great way for students to learn more about the different cultures around the globe. Skype allows students the opportunity to communicate with other students and professionals such as authors, scientists, athletes, and more. Another advantage of Skype is that it engages students. Teachers who use Skype in the classroom find their students to be excited, and actively participating in the Skype discussions. Skype discussions can be done with the entire class, or one-on-one. Students can be assigned a pen pal from a different state or country, in which they could communicate with face to face. The video and audio will allow the students to make a much stronger bond than the traditional pen and paper pen pal. media type="youtube" key="rSGuAz_vnu4" height="409" width="547" <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; display: block; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 22px; text-align: left;">Skype visit from author Barbara Mahler

<span style="color: #007cff; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 180%;">Skype's Future Direction in the Classroom

<span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">The future direction of Skype within K-8 classrooms is very bright. Skype has recently created a "Skype in the Classroom" site which allows educators and students from all over the world to communicate and collaborate with each other. Skype in the Classroom will change the way education is viewed because it allows for students to gain first-hand knowledge of the subjects they are currently studying in school. For example, with Skype in the Classroom, students and teachers can have a conversation with the author of the book they just finished reading, or practice the new language they have been learning with virtual pen-pals. The possibilities are endless.

<span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">In the future, Skype will also provide alternative learning experiences for students who are unable to physically attend school. Students with medical illnesses which prohibit them from attending school, for example, can still log onto Skype and attend school and interact with their peers even without being in the same physical location. Skype in the Classroom will provide students and teachers with experiences which were previously unthought of.

<span style="color: #007cff; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 180%;">To Conclude <span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">Skype is changing the way people communicate with one another today. With its free video, audio, and messaging capabilities all types of people can stay connected with one another quickly and effectively. Schools, especially grades K-8 benefit remarkably from Skype's capabilities. With Skype in the Classroom, students and teachers can learn and experience more than they ever could before. Students can use Skype to communicate with authors, entrepreneurs, other students from around the world, and many others to aid in their learning. Teachers can also use Skype to quickly share and discuss classroom activities, lessons, or questions that need answering. Skype's possibilities in the classroom are endless and are only limited by the imagination.

<span style="color: #007cff; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 150%;">Resources

<span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif;">(2012). In //Skype in the classroom//. Retrieved February 9, 2012, from http://education.skype.com/ <span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif;">(2012). In About Skype: What is Skype? Retrieved February 9, 2012, from http://about.skype.com/ <span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif;">50 Awesome ways to use Skype in the classroom (2011). In //Teaching Degree//. Retrieved February 9, 2012, from <span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Helvetica,sans-serif;">http://www.teachingdegree.org/2009/06/30/50-awesome-ways-to-use-skype-in-the-classroom/