Skype in the Classroom

Description/Rationale

Open up the world to your students by connecting to other classrooms through live Skype sessions and Mystery Skype calls, exploring different places through Virtual Field Trips, and connecting with experts and guest speakers.

Objectives/Learning Goal(s)

  • Learn how Skype in the Classroom can connect your students to classes, experts, and places around the world

This session applies to:

  • Grades 1-12
  • All subjects/content areas
  • Professional Learning Communities
  • Teacher Professional Development
  • Administrators

Activities

Group discussion #1

As a group, answer the following questions:

  • Have you used Skype?
  • If so, in what capacity - personal, work, or both?
  • Describe your experience. What did you enjoy about it? What value did it add to the communication?

Watch the video shown below

Watch the Video

Group discussion #2

  • Who did the students connect with in their Skype calls?
  • What positive experiences did the students express from participating in Skype calls?
  • What positive educational outcomes did you see because of the use of Skype?

Create An Account

If you don't already have a Skype account, be sure to create one now. You can also connect using Skype for Business (part of Office 365).

  1. Go to https://login.skype.com/registration
  2. Complete the form to create your Skype account

Watch the Video

Group Discussion #3

  • What are some of the benefits of having students participate in Mystery Skypes?
  • What positive educational outcomes result from participating in Mystery Skypes?

Video Source: Silvia Tolisano

Explore educational opportunities with Skype:

  1. Go to the Microsoft Educator Community and explore Skype in the Classroom
  2. Explore the five different ways you can use Skype in the Classroom to enhance learning:
    • Virtual Field Trips
    • Skype Lessons
    • Skype Collaborations
    • Mystery Skype
    • Guest Speakers

Watch the Video

Group Discussion #4

  1. What personas are met by using Skype in the Classroom? Why?
  2. How do you see Skype in the Classroom being used in your classroom or teaching profession?

Explore More MS Learning Opportunities

Final Activity: Reflection

Take a moment to reflect on what you've learned about Skype. Have each person from the group share ONE take-away from Skype in the Classroom.

Share your thoughts here