The Language Connection at Niskayuna High School exemplifies our commitment to international education and to the promotion of global understanding. Our mission is to provide learners with quality language instruction, while helping them gain the academic skills and cultural knowledge necessary for their success in academic programs at Niskayuna High School and beyond. By connecting with students their own age in our sister schools in Spain and Mexico, they will have the chance to make a friend while practicing the Spanish language in authentic real life dialogue and situations. This is ideal for all students whether or not you participate in the actual travel part of the foreign exchange program.
1. Many groups have lots of experience in facilitating student and teacher exchanges over the Internet
If you are looking to help facilitate conversations and learning activities between students in Spain or Mexico while using the ever present Internet – then get on board!
One thing to consider:
2. Why are you connecting? To meet new friends and to practice your Spanish!
3. Your reasons for connecting will influence the nature of the connection. You will get out of it as much effort as you put in.
4. Scheduling is non-trivial! Don’t worry, we can make it work! The time difference should not be a deterrent.
7. Global vs. local connections. Use your handheld devices internationally for free! Expand your social media talents communicating with a new Spanish friend.
Language will be a challenge
Part of what makes cross-border connections between students novel, fun and adventurous is the language barrier. Online language translation tools have come a long way in recent years, and can be invaluable aids in bridging language barriers. As anyone who has used them knows, however, the results generated through the use of such tools can be far from perfect in many cases. Where real-time communication is required (in chat rooms, for example, or using videoconferencing), time delays due to translation need to be factored in. In addition, consider supporting virtual connections through face-to-face interactions. Build off existing relationships and interests, initiatives and events.
Skype! Skype! Skype! ZOOM, GOOGLE MEETS
As soon as you've made a connection with a promising school, whether it's in your district or on the other side of the globe, you're ready to connect. One of the cheapest, simplest ways is to use Skype -- a free, online, video-enabled calling service. To get a Skype account, visit Skype.com, download the free software with the click of a button, and enter a user name and password; it's just like creating an email account. When you know the Skype user name of the teacher or classroom you're connecting with (and a time they're available), all you have to do is a quick double-click for instant videoconferencing.
Voxopop:
Essentially a message board with voices, Voxopop.com is another Internet service that allows a group of people located anywhere on the planet to speak together for free (Voxopop has a "record a message" button on each message board). You can start your own "talkgroup" or join an existing one.
Wiki Wonderland:
A wikispace can facilitate communication with your international friend across the world via podcasts, slideshows, videos, and discussion forums.
For many more resources you can use VoiceThread, Voki, Wordle, ToonDoo, and other tech tools for online communication.