Skype in the Classroom
Skype Classroom is a platform that allows educators to collaborate with each other, invite guest speakers into the classroom via Skype, and take virtual field trips to many destinations around the world. Once users register, they have access to a database of possible guest speakers, as well as lessons. The lessons are created by teachers, as well as several zoos, museums, educational organizations and NGOs. They provide opportunities to connect students with people and places that would otherwise be impossible to visit in person.
Benefits
It is free to register with Skype Classroom, and there do not appear to be any fees associated when connecting with experts or taking virtual field trips with any of the many organizations that have partnered with Skype Classroom. Reading the feedback on the site itself shows that teachers are impressed with the variety of learning experiences offered for students in all subjects. There are many opportunities to promote science education, including learning about animal adaptions from Ocean Classrooms or lion conservation through Lion Aid. Most of the lessons include a live presentation by a field expert, as well as a question and answer session so students can actively engage with experts. These synchronous learning experiences provide more valuable learning opportunities than simply watching a video or visiting one of the organizations websites. Students are active participants in the process and have the opportunity to visit educational centres without ever leaving the classroom.
Drawbacks
Teachers need to organize Skype Classroom sessions directly with other teachers and partner organizations. This requires registering in the session through the Skype Classroom website and then contacting the person responsible for the learning experience directly. Finding a suitable time that meets the teacher's and the presenter's schedule can be challenging. Teachers also reference technical difficulties, such as loss of video and slow internet connections, as disrupting sessions. When a lot of time and effort has been devoted to organizing Skype virtual field trips, it is both frustrating and disappointing when technology fails. Finally, whenever possible, teachers should try and find similar learning experiences in their local community that will scaffold and support the Skype Classroom experience. Skype Classroom is not a substitute for the real life, hands on learning experiences.
Benefits
It is free to register with Skype Classroom, and there do not appear to be any fees associated when connecting with experts or taking virtual field trips with any of the many organizations that have partnered with Skype Classroom. Reading the feedback on the site itself shows that teachers are impressed with the variety of learning experiences offered for students in all subjects. There are many opportunities to promote science education, including learning about animal adaptions from Ocean Classrooms or lion conservation through Lion Aid. Most of the lessons include a live presentation by a field expert, as well as a question and answer session so students can actively engage with experts. These synchronous learning experiences provide more valuable learning opportunities than simply watching a video or visiting one of the organizations websites. Students are active participants in the process and have the opportunity to visit educational centres without ever leaving the classroom.
Drawbacks
Teachers need to organize Skype Classroom sessions directly with other teachers and partner organizations. This requires registering in the session through the Skype Classroom website and then contacting the person responsible for the learning experience directly. Finding a suitable time that meets the teacher's and the presenter's schedule can be challenging. Teachers also reference technical difficulties, such as loss of video and slow internet connections, as disrupting sessions. When a lot of time and effort has been devoted to organizing Skype virtual field trips, it is both frustrating and disappointing when technology fails. Finally, whenever possible, teachers should try and find similar learning experiences in their local community that will scaffold and support the Skype Classroom experience. Skype Classroom is not a substitute for the real life, hands on learning experiences.