Skype+Introduction

Skype What is Skype Skype is a video conferencing* tool enabling users to chat, talk, and connect in real-time with other Skype users anywhere in the world who have a Skype account. *A video conference is a set of telecommunication tools that allow users to connect in real-time and have a two-way conversation via video. media type="custom" key="7751549"

Skype in the Classroom In the olden days students used to have something called a pen pal. Now...pen pals actually required students to use a crude implement called a "pen" which was filled with ink...you get the point. Those days are long gone. Students today don't write to one another. They instant message, text, email, or call. In order to keep up with the times, it's important for schools to employ available technologies that will fully engage the students. Skype is one of those tools. Students today can now chat online, for free, with other students anywhere in the world. Imagine having your class connect with one in California, China, or Djibouti (It's a VERY small African country). Imagine what you could do with an opportunity like that.

Here is an example of what school in New York did with Skype

media type="youtube" key="uViuWDbuNaY?fs=1" height="385" width="480" Some Things to Consider As with all technology, there are some things to think about before launching a new tool in your classroom.


 * Your district has an Acceptable Use Policy in place. Make sure all students have signed the policy.
 * Clearly define your expectations regarding the new technology. What is acceptable? What is unacceptable? What are the consequences?
 * Protect your students' safety by discussing the various pieces of information they should NOT divulge while participating in a session.
 * Be sure you set your privacy levels.

Remember...in most cases, the only person who will actively be logging into Skype is the teacher. If you progress to the point where you want students to be able to Skype in small groups or individually, you need to have clear, frank discussion about internet safety.

Enough already! Take me to Skype To download Skype, please go to Skype.com

To download the program, follow these steps:
 * 1) Select "Get Skype" at the top of the page.
 * 2) Select "Windows"
 * 3) Click the green "Download Now" button

You will have to create an account at this time.

You have to provide the following information:


 * 1) First and Last Name
 * 2) Email Address
 * 3) Country
 * 4) Language
 * 5) Skype User name
 * 6) Password

Once you've provided the required information, click "I Agree".

A Security Warning will pop up. Click "Run" A second security warning will pop up. Click "Run" A "Skype Install" box will appear. Click "I agree" Uncheck the Google toolbar installer box and then click "Continue Installing" Once Skype has finished installing, the install window will say "Start Skype." Click there.

Logging into Skype

Once you've installed the program, you will need to log in.

Your user name should all ready be filled in, all you need to do is provide the password.

You will notice there are two boxes on the bottom of the Skype window. I would recommend unchecking both boxes before you log in.

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