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

• A computer with internet access OR a mobile phone with internet access
• Skype runs on  Windows, Mac, Linux, Pocket PC, and many cell phones
• Web camera (Optional -if you would like the person/people you are communicating with to see you)
• A microphone (Optional -if you would like to speak directly with the person/people you are communicating with)
• Speakers (Optional -if you would like to hear the person/people you are communicating with)
• Headset -combination of speakers and microphone (Optional)
• Television -(Optional -if you would like to display a large image of the person/people you are communicating with -for example, in a classroom)
• Apps are available on the droid, iPhone, iPod, iPad, and other smart phone applications.

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

• Skype works best if you have a time already scheduled for both parties to meet on Skype.  One party may call the other party and even enjoy seeing each other as they talk. 
• If both parties are using a webcam it is necessary to make sure that your camera is working correctly.
• Using a fast and reliable internet connection will make your Skyping experience more enjoyable.

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

• Connect with students and teachers from other countries, discover new cultures, and meet up with classes from around the world, all without leaving your classroom.
• Connect with experts in the field -for example scientists from the Denver Museum of Nature and Science can Skype with your class as they conduct research out in the field to show students what field research is like first-hand.  For more information visit the Denver Museum of Nature and Science -Scientists in Action website: http://www.dmns.org/teachers/at-the-museum/scientists-in-action.
• Host guest speakers from distant places right in your classroom -for example, set up a time with your guest speaker to connect on Skype, set up your classroom webcam, set up your t.v. screen so the entire class can see your guest speaker and enjoy your guest speaker as if they were in the same room.  Guest speakers and students can see each other, as well as talk to each other.
• Collaborate on projects with other classes from across the globe by listing yourself in the EduSkype phone book.  Once listed, you can either search for posted Skype-involved projects you would like to join, or post your own project for other teachers/classrooms to join you.  To find out more information go to: http://skypeintheclassroom.wordpress.com/
• Observe and communicate with scientists in the laboratory - see video "Skype with a Geneticist" below
• Discover new and innovative teaching methods from teachers around the world
• Learn first-hand how students from different regions of the world are impacted by environmental issues specific to their region

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.