A Digital Tool for the Classroom By: Toni Rieger English 6940 June 2012

What is Skype? A calling network that allows free calls between people with Skype accounts Skype accounts can be free or upgraded to include additional features Calls can be made anywhere globally With use of a webcam, video calls can be made Technically called VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) Upgraded additional features: Screen sharing, Group Video Calls, Text Messaging,

How to Set up Skype: Create an account on www.skype.com Choose your username Note: Once created, your username cannot be changed. Download and Install the Skype software to your computer. Once installation is complete, you will be prompted to open and run Skype for the first time.

The First Time You Use Skype: A tutorial will pop up offering hints and suggestions on how to use Skype. You will be asked to add a profile picture (optional). You can use your webcam to take one or upload an existing photo. You can also edit other information in your personal profile including: location, birth date, phone number Email, etc. This is recommended so people looking for you know that it is the correct account.

Adding Contacts: To Add a Contact : On toolbar, click Contacts, then Add Contact. Enter the Email, phone number, full name, or Skype name of the person you want to add. When you have found your friend, click + Add. A request will then be sent to your friend for their confirmation. NOTE: You can also import multiple contacts at once through use of your Email address book. A request will be sent to the addresses with Skype accounts.

Features: Voice Calling Conference Calling Face-to-face Video Calling Group Video Calling Screen Sharing Instant Messaging Send files Text Messaging

Making Calls: To Make a Call: Select an online contact from the column on the left side of your screen. Their profile information will appear at the top of your screen. Then, select either the option to video call or call without a video. Skype will then attempt to connect the call.

Calling Icons: ONLINE: Contacts that are currently online and can contact you. AWAY: Contacts that are signed into Skype, but not necessarily at their computer to receive calls. However, they can still receive messages. OFFLINE: Contacts that are not signed into Skype and cannot make or receive calls or messages.

Calling Options: Check call quality or adjust volume Hide/reveal instant messaging window Microphone on/off End call Exit full screen mode Hide/reveal contact list Webcam on/off Send files, send contacts, share desktop screen, take a picture, or add people to the conversation

Benefits of Skype in the Classroom: Free! It blends written communication skills with oral communication. Gives students a sense of purpose in preparing what they will present. It is now integrated with Facebook.

Concerns with Skype: Some users have had issues with Mac connectivity. Students’ responses will be live and unedited. The time differences between countries can thwart efforts to connect. Internet connections must be reliable in order to work.

Uses for Skype in the Classroom: Students can prepare presentations to other classes around the world. Schools can create global “penpals” with today’s technology. Cultural differences can be explored firsthand. Students can discuss global issues and see other cultures’ points of view. Reading classes could meet authors face-to-face!

in the classroom www.education.skype.com Teachers can connect with other teachers to collaborate on projects within their classrooms. Teachers can also collaborate with organizations across the world to offer unique educational experiences for students . You can filter searches by age group, language, country, or category.