Skype: Making Connections

Help your students make global connections through Skype. After completing this quest you will know how to use Skype's Educator Network, Twitter, family and friends to find other educators and individuals to connect with through Skype.

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Skype: Making Connections

Skype is a free tool that can be used in the classroom to connect your class with another class in another part of the world or to connect your students with story tellers, guest speakers and experts on a variety of subjects.

The following link is an excellent resource by Sue Waters on Edublogger to refer to throughout the Skype Quests as it offers step-by-step directions on getting started with Skype from set up to your first Skype session with your class:

Setting Up

To use Skype in the classroom, you will need:

1. Skype installed on the computer that connects to the Smartboard or projector*

2. Microphone installed* (Some computers have microphones built in. A simple microphone that plugs into the mic jack usually works well also.)

3. Webcam installed on the computer*

*Check with your school technician or media coordinator if you need help with installing Skype, the microphone or webcam.

Making Connections through Microsoft's Skype in the Classroom Educator Network

Now that you have Skype installed on your computer in your classroom, you are ready for the next step: Making Connections. What good is Skype if you have no one with whom to Skype?

Helpful Tip: It is a good idea when you are first starting out with Skype to try your first video call with a friend or someone in your building. This will help you troubleshoot any kinks and become more comfortable using Skype before attempting it with a class full of students.

One way to connect quickly with other teachers who also use Skype is to create a teacher account on Skype's Educator Network page.

Please note that this is a lengthy registration. You do not need to answer every question, just the required ones. Once you have created an account, explore the site and see how other educators are using Skype in the Classroom and how you might join them.

Use the link to explore the educators' page to create an educator account on Microsoft's Skype in the Classroom community page. To create an account, click "Skype sign in" then "Create New Account."