James Andrew Wilson

Skype-Software which allows people to talk and see each other over the internet.

Allows teachers to be brought into schools in remote or undesirable locations.

If there is an environment that stimulates curiosity, it is possible for children to teach themselves and share pertinent knowledge.

Studies have shown the strongest factor affecting poor results in certain Indian schools were the teachers lack of desire to be in those schools. The use of Skype could solve this problem and allow children to receive the education they deserve.

The quality of English declined the further the school was located from an urban area.

I think it’s awesome that Skype can bring education to children who otherwise may not get the chance to learn due to demographics or financial reasons. All children deserve the right to an education and Skype can give it to them.

Science Daily (March 3,2009)http://www.sciencedaily.com/

releases/2009/03/090303102731.htm

Skype can offer teachers and students many features for collaboration, such as live video and instant file sharing. Most teachers are on a tight classroom budget, so Skype is very beneficial ,(It’s Free).

Teachers with web knowledge can create a gathering place to reach language learners. Schools in many different countries have connected with each other over Skype to help students master foreign languages through educator-mediated Web forums.

Special needs children can really benefit from the use of Skype in the classroom.

Many children with developmental delays have trouble describing their school day to parents or guardians when they get home. With Skype, teachers can send a description of the day over a chat or file transfer.

Skype also offers accessible modes of language. Children who are blind can join in an audio Skype conference. Hearing impaired children can engage in a written chat. Skype connects the special-needs student with new opportunities for learning.

In the past, kids who had physical or mental disabilities often couldn’t be in the actual classroom and probably felt left out .With Skype, they have the feeling of being part of the class and what goes on daily. They probably are more interested in learning when they can see their teacher and classmates. Children who are homebound probably feel isolated and being able to see the other kids is wonderful.

Using Skype at School http://www.dummies.com/how-to/

content/using-skype-at-school.html

Many schools are using Skype in the Library to bring book authors to the students.

Many readers form their own opinions of books, but by actually seeing and hearing the author you get to hear their opinions and understand the book better.

Students can get instant answers to questions instead of waiting on E-mails.

Skype also makes it easier for shy students to ask questions they might not have ask before.

Many schools are using Skype for book discussions with other schools or libraries.

In areas with limited library staff, Skype can be used as a reference service. Skype reference helps put a “face” on library services and is easier than E-mail.

Schools can set up certain protocol,(i.e.-names) when using Skype for security reasons and also use one supervised computer to contact an expert with the librarian’s assistance.

I think children might enjoy reading books more if they can put a face to the story. By seeing the author, they may understand the books characters more and see why they do what they do in it. Different characters personalities may be seen in the author also. Skype can make this possible. I also think it’s great that Skype allows students the chance to hear the authors actual voice.

Carolyn Foote-School Library Journal,1/1/2008

http//www.schoollibraryjournal.com/artitle/CA6515247.html

The quote I liked best from the three articles was one by Professor Sugata Mitra.

“Technology should not been seen as a threat to teaching but an asset. Computers cannot replace good teachers but they can get a high standard of education into the schools where they are needed the most, while still allowing teachers to live where they want to.”

I love the way that Skype brings learning into the lives of students who without it may not had the chance to receive the education they deserve. I think all schools that are wired for the internet should take advantage of this free service. I think students with disabilities can benefit the most from Skype. It’s so important for them to feel they are part of the class.