1. Using IChat Instant Messaging Software Dean McKinney Greater St. Albert Catholic Schools January, 2006

2. What is IChat? IChat is an instant messaging software that allows you to communicate with other IChat users connected anywhere in the world. You can communicate with other users using video, audio, and/or text.

3. What Is Needed With IChat? Computer running Mac OS X software Internet connection AOL Instant Messaging account Web camera (optional: eg. Isight) Another user Note You can communicate with anyone using AOL instant messaging or.Mac regardless of platform. IChat can also be used within a school network when set up correctly.

4. Getting Started Start up your computer Plug in your ISight camera into the firewire port Open IChat software Choose a Buddy Select the method of communication –(ie text, audio, or video)

5. Finding Chat Partners Each division school has an AOL account eg GHPGSACRD, BKGSACRD Names have been added to mobile units’ Buddy List Other sources: –www.isighted.comwww.isighted.com –www.iearn.org

6. Address Book Software Software used to keep contact information Referred to as VCARDS Can share your “vcard” with others for their address books

7. Starting A Chat Select someone to chat with using your Buddy List Note the text is the only service currently available

8. Starting A Chat Invitation as it appears when received: Can elect to receive or decline. Can also BLOCK users from sending you messages.

9. Video Chats IChat users can enter into video chats with up to three other users at one time. Can also have one-way video chats.

10. Uses for instant messaging Collaboration with other schools, teachers, or guest speakers anywhere in the world. Sharing files and information Instant feedback Avoid phone charges Can be fun!

11. Advantages/Disadvantages of Instant Messaging Advantages Easy to use Real Time – Fast – Instant Response Contact / ‘Buddy List‘ –Controlled access –View availability online Can talk to anyone with a free AOL account (Mac OS 9, Mac OSX, PC)

12. Advantages/Disadvantages of Instant Messaging Disadvantages Security risks Message interception Virus via file transfer (bypasses virus scanning) Privacy concerns Can be distracting Lack administration Viewed as a Time Waster

13. Questions? Contact me cybersachs2