Skype in the Classroom

With a simple webcam teachers can bring the entire world into the K-12 classroom.  About two years ago Skype created Skype in the Classroom to help teachers connect with other classrooms and experts in their field around the world.  Since then the service has become very successful and robust.  According to the Skype website, their are over 57,000 teachers around the world using Skype in the Classroom to enrich their student's learning experience.

Skype in the Classroom provides a free way for teachers to make connections around the globe.  You can post your own lesson ideas in order to find a match for your project, or you can search through projects posted by teachers and partner organizations from around the world. There is also an entire section for classrooms looking to create Skype "penpals", which is a great opportunity to create long term relationships with students from around the globe.

You can video chat in French with students in Paris, discuss current events live with students in the Middle East.  These one-to-one classroom connections are great for World Language learners and Social Studies classrooms looking to connect with kids living around the globe.

Additionally, many experts offer free web chats on their area of expertise.  Examples of lessons with experts that can found on Skype at present include:

• Speak with experts about Osprey bird migration patterns;
• Take a virtual eco tour of Sub-Saharan Africa;
• Bobsled math with Olympic champions;
• Skype with a Yellowstone Ranger.

These lessons allow for students to experience places they may never be able to visit in person. 

Check out Skype in The Classroom to bring the world to your students.