Journal 9: Playing with Skype, NETS V

Weller, T.J. (2009). Playing with skype. L&L, 37(6), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=March_April_No_6_1&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4516&ContentID=25508&DirectListComboInd=

Playing with Skype, by Travis Weller is about the ease of use of Skype. Mr. Weller is the director of bands at Mercer Area Middle-Senior High School in Pennsylvania. The technology, Skype was used to connect the expert, whose music is being performed, with the students performing it. The media also connected the composers with the audience and the ensemble where the composers could explain their piece in order for the audience and ensemble to better identify with them. The technology requirements were manageable through grant funding. The Skype connection itself was free. The tools necessary were a computer with a broadband Internet connection, a data projector, a couple microphones, a webcam, some adapters to pump the audio feed through the sound system, and a projector screen. The author’s opinion is that the education “paradigm” is shifting; now, education is not solely run by a single teacher but through a network of teachers made possible by “playing with Skype.” Bringing in local and non-local experts from colleges and universities also campaigns for higher learning. I appreciate the way the author makes a note to inform his students of digital citizenry by spending 45 minutes discussing copyright laws, the music business, and censorship. Tapping into resources such as feedback and instruction from other experts puts learning content into perspective and adds dimension to material being learned.
1. Do I see myself using this technology in the classroom? Yes, definitely. In a lower elementary school class we could use Skype to connect children with their email pen pals via a live communication.
2. What about schools on a budget? Like the school in Pennsylvania, a grant can be discussed and a grass roots campaign harnessing parents’ potential in the community.