Weller, Travis. (2010). Playing with skype. Learning and Leading with Technology, 37(6), 28-29.
It is incredible how with so little and the use of today’s technology, teachers are being able to offer content for their student that might not ever be readily available to them. Travis Weller was able to connect his student with the actual composers of the music they were playing, giving both the composer and the student the ability to communicate and connect with a piece of music.
With the use of a computer, a broadband connection, a data projector and a few other pieces of equipment readily available at his school he made use of a free version in internet software on skype.com. Skype is making it possible to seek out subject experts and inviting them to share in an interactive classroom experience.
How would I use a tool such as Skype in my classroom?
I am and avid adopter of the belief that if technology can provide a richer learning experience for my students then the effort I need to make it work will be completely worth it. As some who might be teaching English literature or even business; it would be incredible to connect with contemporary authors to discuss their work and writing techniques or to have a discussion regarding the Stock exchange with someone who actually is there every day.
What are some of the challenges facing me in the potential use of this type of technology?
As much as the use of new technology has started to be integrated into the classroom, there is still a large group of educators hesitant in adopting new practices. We need to understand the majority of our students will be technically savy and we need to encourage them to utilize these skills in such a way that it is productive in their learning process. The other obstacle is in the number of computer readily available in the classroom. Technology use and equipment availability within a school district is not equitable between each school. This really needs to change if we want to ensure our students are ready for the 21st Century.
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