Science- Biology- Skype


 

 

What is Skype?

Skype is an online tool designed to create contact between people over the internet.  Founded in 2003, Skype provides an inexpensive and relatively easy way to communicate with people around the globe.  The Skype application includes voice communication (like a phone conversation), video calls (as seen on the Jetsons -voice and video), and chat (text communication).  As of October 2009 there were 521 million active Skype accounts and this number continues to grow.

 

 

 

Cost of Skype

Skype is a free service as long as you are making a Skype to Skype call, one to one video call, instant messaging, or text messaging.  For their other services Skype offers three other payment plans: a pay as you go plan, a subscription plan and a premium plan.  Each of these plans can be purchased at a different price that corresponds to the services provided.  http://www.skype.com/intl/en-us/prices/

 

Accessories Needed

 

Setting up your Skype account

1. Go to www.skype.com

2. Click on "Join Skype."  Follow the instructions and create an account.

3. Download Skype onto your computer and when your account is created, log in. 

4. Once logged in, you can search for other people who use Skype and ask them to add you to their contact list.

5. After you have added people to your account you can dial them, or message them. 

 

"Skyping" Tips

 

Application to teaching- How can we use in the biology classroom?

 

 

Web links

http://www.skype.com

This is a direct link to Skype's home page and where one can find the features associated with Skype.

 

http://www.teachingdegree.org/2009/06/30/50-awesome-ways-to-use-skype-in-the-classroom/

This site provides "50 awesome ways to use Skype in the classroom."

 

http://education.skype.com/

This is a website for teachers who want learn the latest ideas and capabilities of Skype.  It also provides a forum, so teachers can find classrooms around the world with which to collaborate.  

 

http://edtechteacher.org/

Three-part Skype video tutorial and tips for classroom Skyping.

 

http://skypeintheclassroom.wordpress.com/

The EduSkypers phonebook.  This website connects educators who want to collaborate with other educators.

 

http://coolcatteacher.blogspot.com/2006/10/using-skype-in-classroom-or-just.html

This blog contains instructions, in a lesson plan format, on how to introduce Skype into your classroom.  The teacher even includes a video and safety instructions to give to students i.e. don't fill out all of your profile information and don't use your full, real name.