Journal 9- Playing with Skype-NETS II & V

Weller, T.J. (2010). Playing with skype. Learning and Leading with Technology, 37(6), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/L.

Travis J. Weller writer of this article, writes about trying to figure out ways to help music composers connect with the students who bring their musical pieces to life and with the families who are listening to them play. The author finally found a great way to bring composers to live concerts using technology. This would be possible using Skype. The equipment requirements were not many, they would only need a computer with a broadband internet connection, a data projector, a couple of microphones, a webcam,adapters to pump the audio feed through the sound system and a projector screen. Mr. Weller was able to have all of this equipment because of a grant they received from the Classrooms for the Future. Noted composers then agreed to appear live at this concerts via Skype and they were able to introduce their pieces before the students performed them. Not only was this introduction meaningful to the students and families but to the composers as well. Composers were able to communicate about their piece and what they were really trying to project with their pieces. Mr. Weller believes that if the usage of technology makes for a richer educational experience then it is worth it. Skype is very easy to use and it only takes a few simple steps to signup for the installation of Skype. Composers also liked the usage of Skype because not only was it easy to use but it also allowed them to explain their pieces so that the audience and students can better identify with them. Skype's main purpose is for experts in subject areas to share in the classroom about this in real time without having to fly in from another state or country. Mr.Weller believes teachers should not feel intimidated by Skype but that they should use Skype to their advantage and try to get as much learning experiences out of Skype as possible.



Do you think Skype is a great digital tool to use in the classroom? I believe Skype is a great educational resource because it allows experts in any subject area to share their knowledge in real time through the internet. Students will be able to interact with this people and get a feel of what these presenters want to transmit to the people about their musical pieces, and or other works that they have accomplished. Skype is easy to use and it also seems to be very affordable, something schools need nowadays to enrich our students' learning experiences.


How would I see myself using this technology in the classroom? I think Skype would be great to use in the classroom because I could have experts talk about any subject matter that correspond to them and to what my students are learning about. For example, I could have a zoologist come to the classroom via Skype to talk about animals and their habitats when learning about animals. Skype will allow knowledgeable experts in any subject area to come into the classroom and teach about their corresponding subject area. After using skype I would have my students write a reflective paper about what they learned and about the experience they had having experts teach through Skype.