Skype Chats
Description:
Skype for Business 2016 is a digital communication tool that is already installed on all RCSD students and teacher devices. As all RCSD teachers and students are part of the shared network, you can simply search for people by their last names to connect with them via Skype. This makes it very easy for teachers to connect and collaborate with other classroom. Skype allows students and teacher to connect and collaborate in a couple of different ways. Skype has the functions for it's users to connect through regular chat, video chat, or screen sharing their device. Not only are teachers and students able to connect to people in RCSD, there are many opportunities for teachers to connect their class with various professionals or experts in the world. You can find out more about how to invite experts into your classroom here. Keep reading below to get a better understanding of how to connect with fellow teachers and students in RCSD.
Collaboration:
As communication is one of the most important aspects of collaboration, Skype can be utilized to further your collaboration efforts in the classroom. One way to collaborate using this tool is to create a coaching or mentorship program between two or more classrooms. Teachers can designate a specific time during the school day and have students connect with their mentors. For example, you can create a Genius Hour mentorship program in your classroom. As the students are working on their project, they are inevitably going to have some challenges and questions to overcome during the journey. Students can formulate questions and connect with their mentors to have their questions heard and answered. It's also valuable for students to discuss their ideas and propose changes as they are making their way through a Genius Hour project. It can be very valuable for students to get an outsiders perspective on an assignment.
Students can also connected via video chat on Skype For Business. This is very valuable as students can make personal connections and develop a strong relationship with their partner or mentor at another school. The video chat also allows student to discuss project ideas or problems they may encounter when working on an assignment. The video chat function on Skype also allows students to share their desktop with the person on the other end of the chat. This can be valuable as students are able to analyze and assess each other's work. They are able to see the actual progress and make suggestions as student's work through their project. The students can simultaneously share their desktop and chat with their partner about the assignment.
Benefits:
- Skype allows for students to make connections with students outside of their regular classroom. This can be valuable as students are able to experience unique perspectives, beliefs, and opinions.
- Students can connect with those who have a specific skill set or knowledge on a particular topic. This may help them develop a deeper understanding of a topic.
- When connected with the right people or professionals, students are able to experience new and unique opportunities that go beyond the school walls. There are so many amazing people, places, and things in this world that we are not able to experience simply based on our geography. With Skype in the classroom, you are able to invite people into your classroom and share their expertise with your students.