EDUCATION BLOG

When I was in high school, distance learning was a brand new technology.  One or two of our classrooms did some trial courses, but in my experience it was more annoying than useful.  Although Skype is based on the same idea of connecting classrooms remotely, I think the technology surrounding Skype–particularly faster connection and integration of the SmartBoard– is what has turned it into an effective educational tool for the 21st century.  I can’t help wondering how long it will be until we are able to virtually visit other countries and classrooms in complete 3D.  With how fast technology is progressing, I wouldn’t be surprised if my kids are able to do so.

Anyway… back in real time.  I’ve been brainstorming (and Googling) ways in which I could use Skype in the English Language Arts.  Connecting cultures is what intrigues me the most–being able to meet people from various countries as we study world literature.  Talking directly to authors seems like a great way to enrich the study of contemporary literature.  And the opportunity for students to present creative projects such as skits, poems, and songs to another group of students, either in a neighboring town or half-way across the globe, seems like it would be a huge motivator for active learning.

A really great example from classroom20.com that I think is worth re-posting:

“I have been using Skype in the classroom for three years now and would highly recommend it. There are so many benefits as students make global connections to others around the world. My students’ most recent Skyping experience was with a school in Coulee Dam, Washington on an Indian Reservation. Our initial collaboration was done via wiki where the students shared their writing, but we then extended it to skype sessions where my students had the privilege of experiencing live traditional dances that are a big part of the Native American culture. My students saw many styles of Native American dance as well as the traditional regalia that is worn. This was not only a very memorable experience for my students but it gave them greater insight and appreciation for a different culture other than their own. It also covered our 5th grade theme of “perspectives” and how attitudes or beliefs can change through various experiences.”–Kim Trefz, retrieved from this forum on classroom20.com