Skype+Home

=**Skype in the Classroom**=

**Pre-Class Survey**
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 * http://skypeintheclassroomfall2010.wikispaces.com/**
 * CATNIP Fall 2010**


 * What is Skype?**
 * Free (our favorite!) software
 * Internet-based
 * Synchronous, allows for real-time discussions
 * Supports
 * Chat - instant messaging
 * Voice calls (Skype-to-Skype
 * Screen Sharing
 * Video calls (one-to-one with free version. subscription allows for group video calls)
 * Send files
 * Why use it in the classroom?
 * Allows classrooms to...
 * Collaborate
 * Exchange ideas - all around the world
 * Break down barriers of time and distance


 * Getting started**
 * Setting up your Skype account
 * Don't plug in cameras yet
 * Even if you already have an account you will need to go through the steps with us
 * Profile picture
 * When you open up Skype will be asked to set your profile picture
 * Once your camera is plugged in you can take a picture of yourself and use it, or, use one you have on your laptop
 * Look over starting window
 * Run through menus
 * Skype
 * Online Status
 * Set-up **Privacy**settings
 * Remember privacy issues in the classroom
 * Don't include identifying information in your Skype name or profile
 * Blocking people
 * Notifications
 * Calls
 * IM & SMS
 * Advanced
 * Add other contacts - tonight we will use people from the class
 * Find other people in Skype
 * Search under "Add a contact"
 * Practice with one other person in class. One of you go out in the entry way and practice calling. This is the fun part!
 * If you are feeling brave, give the Chat feature a try as well.
 * Find a contact, give it a try.


 * Now on to the Logitech software - let the fun begin! Time to open up your new web cam. You may want to keep the box to store your camera.**
 * [[image:skypeintheclassroomfall2011/webcamfloatingtoolbar.jpg align="right"]]
 * Record video or capture images
 * Enable video effects and fun filters
 * Web cam settings (mic and such
 * Setting up the webcam
 * Logitech Webcam Software window
 * Always use RightLight Technology
 * Floating toolbar
 * Second icon - Quick Capture
 * Take a Photo
 * Record a Video
 * Third icon - video effects (Let the fun begin!)
 * Quick capture window must be open
 * Use the pull down to pick what you want to do....avatars, face accessories, etc.
 * Fourth icon - Privacy Shade
 * Fifth icon - Web cam Settings
 * Pan and tilt
 * Auto focus
 * Face tracking
 * Face tracking


 * Now is it time to use the web cam for a video call.**
 * Find a partner and take turns calling each other
 * Try both video and audio
 * Not everyone you call will have access to a webcam
 * Be completely silly and try using the avatars or other functions in the video effects section

There are several very good websites out there that provide good information for effectively using Skype in the classroom.
 * Time to get back to the use of Skype in the classroom.**
 * http://skypeanauthor.wetpaint.com/
 * It is worth taking the time to read through this entire site to get a good start on understanding the program.
 * Be sure to read the Directions for Teachers & Librarians
 * Before you Skype as a class activities
 * Plan your conference from beginning to end
 * Have a goal
 * Find partners
 * Have a backup plan
 * Do a test call before the event
 * Prepare students
 * Prepare by writing down questions
 * Designate who will speak
 * First time out you may want to use audio only and leave the chat for when you are feeling more confident
 * When you are not speaking, mute the mic (background noises can be distracting)
 * Netiquette in Skype - speak clearly and slowly to be heard
 * Netiquette of chat feature need to be followed (no caps, etc.)
 * Debrief with students, discussing what they have taken away from the experience.
 * Follow-up with other class with a thank-you (if appropriate)


 * Resources - Use of Skype in the Classroom**
 * http://www.teachingdegree.org/2009/06/30/50-awesome-ways-to-use-skype-in-the-classroom/
 * http://theedublogger.com/want-to-connect-with-other-classrooms/

http://jasonweaver.weebly.com/skype-in-the-classroom.html http://thetechteacher.libsyn.com/ http://theedublogger.com/2008/12/16/quick-start-tips-for-new-skype-users/
 * Resources used for this class:**