Can We Skype You?

Recently, one of the schools within our district had a memorable experience.... they were able to talk one-on-one with a local TV celebrity. How did it happen? Did the students visit the TV station? Nope. Did the TV personality come to the school? Well... not exactly. Technology brought the two together using a computer, a web cam, a projector and Skype.

Skype is definitely not new to the tech scene. But, the experience it brings is always a new feeling, especially when you are a student sitting face-to-face with someone you wouldn't normally have a direct conversation with. So, what did the students ask Leigh Brock, a local meteorologist from WFMY? The normal questions we all have about the weather, our climate, and of course... the famous green screen!

The hosting school has a major goal for all of their teachers this year... make at least one global connection by the end of the year. Awesome task - and great for the students. Tons of benefits... exposure, change of pace, and learning right within the 21st Century Skills initiative. The school has defined the word "global" as simply any connection made outside of the normal classroom walls. Hmmmm.... classrooms without walls - that is what Skype can easily provide.

Where do you even find connections to Skype with? Couple of ways... there are various published lists of ideas you can find just by searching the web. Check out some of these resources.

Skype Virtual Guest Speakers
Skype in Schools Directory
Skype an Author
Cool Cat Teacher: Tips to Skype
See Me, Hear Me

Or... you can try the old-fashioned way... Call or email the person and simply invite them to Skype!

If you want to know more about the featured skyper from last week's class... Leigh Brock or WFMY - check them out online. BTW, Thanks Leigh!! We really appreciate you taking the time to help our students experience a prime example of what 21st Century Skills/Learning looks like!

Reading this blog and you want to get in on the Skype experience? Post a message here and you will be well on your way to communication on a whole new level...

Can You Hear Me Now?

Telecommunications: “The science and technology of the communication of messages over a distance, especially using electric, electronic or electromagnetic impulses.” (Definition courtesy of http://en.wiktionary.org)

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): “VoIP is voice communications transmitted over the Internet.” (Definition courtesy of the network glossary found on http://www.logicalpackets.com)

What do the definitions above REALLY mean? Ask yourself these two questions… How do I communicate? What device do I use to communicate with? Enough said. If you believe successful communication can only be achieved with your home phone, mobile phone or email – it’s time to change your way of thinking!

Take a look at three of the 21st century ways to communicate with others. Best of all… they are FREE.

Skype – software that allows you to make calls via the internet.
· You must download the software in order to use the internet calling features
· As long as you are dialing from one computer to another, calls are free (VoIP)
· Charges apply if you dial to an actual phone number!
· Webcam is optional – only if you want to see the person while you speak
· Built-in Microphone or Headset – personal preference. But, you must have a mic in order for the other party to hear you.

DimDim – web conferencing/video conferencing online application
· Allows you to share your desktop with others as you collaborate on projects
· Can easily chat and/or talk to your meeting attendees
· Great for meetings or for people in different locations who need to meet
· No downloads required
· Need help getting started? There is a 3 minute tutorial on the homepage.
· Did I mention… free! (as long as you don’t invite more than 20 people to your meeting!)

uStream - instant live broadcasts online
· No downloads required
· Must create an account
· Webcam necessary to broadcast
· Free!

How can you incorporate 21st century telecommunications into your classroom? Easy! Get on board with creating a global community right inside your class. Global communities? That is a blog post for another day.

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TECH TIP: Texting is nothing new and is actually gaining greater popularity every day. But, are you slow with your thumbs? Don’t worry! Depending on your mobile phone carrier, you can also send text messages from online. Check out your mobile phone service provider’s website to see if they offer this feature. Most do!