Don't Just Tell 'Em, Take 'Em There!

Picture this: a high school Spanish class is learning about the culture of Mexico, and the teacher is able to take the students into a Mexican city via a computer. The class can speak to a citizen in real time, see where he is and his surroundings, and hear him speak in true accent.

The technology that makes this possible is Skype. Skype is basically just an online phone with both audio and video capabilities. You and I can set up a Skype account for absolutely FREE and make video calls to anyone anywhere in the world.

There are many uses for Skype in the classroom. A class in one state can connect with a class in another. This type of interaction allows students to learn from one another rather than from just the teacher and textbook. Students in Florida have a very different experience than those in Alaska, and using Skype students can understand different places and ways of life. Students can also connect with experts or people in other countries. A person who has experience with a subject may offer something to students that the teacher cannot.

Here is a video of Skype at work in the classroom. What a great way to practice your Spanish!

Teachers can also benefit from Skype. Collaborative meetings can be held using the technology that would allow educators from all over the country to share their ideas with one another. Click here to read more about how teachers are using Skype in their classrooms. Some teachers even use it to connect with their classes while they have to be away at a conference or when they are at home sick!

I personally think Skype is a great resource for education. While it could never take the place of a textbook and other learning materials, it provides endless possibilities when used in conjunction with them. It’s main benefit in my opinion is the fact that it allows students to connect with experts on the subject they are studying, whether it be a foreign language, a war, or a novel. As technology becomes more and more a part of education, I think Skype will evolve as a leading learning tool.

To learn more about Skype or set up your own account, visit www.skype.com.

Before you go, watch this heartwarming story of how a class got creative using Skype to include a classmate. Skype is helping these kids learn much more than just the standards!

http://www.arisleyschool.org/Inclusion.mov