Skype

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What is Skype?
Skype is a VoIP tool. VoIP stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol. This Technology allows the user to make voice calls over the internet. Many VoIP services also provide text chatting as well as video chatting for users with access to webcams. [|Click here for more detailed information on VoIP from the FCC (Federal Communications Commission).]



Our training session today will be dedicated to the use of Skype, but you can [|click here for information]on additional providers as well as details on topics such as legal issues, security, and technical needs when using VoIP tools. //Be sure to contact your Instructional Technology personnel for assistance using Skype or to clear any other VoIP sites for use before you attempt to download and use them on school computers.//

Skype can be run on Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems as well as a variety of mobile devices. The key components that the user must have in any format are sufficient computer speed and memory, internet access (speed is needed here too), speakers, and a microphone (a headset is a good idea). For video calls, the user will need a webcam. Headset and webcam purchases will typically be made at the school level.

Video Tutorials
Would you like to use Skype in the classroom to connect your students to kids on the other side of the world? What about using it to bring guest speakers into the classroom who cannot physically come out to your campus? Watch the following tutorials for some tips on getting started!

Downloading Skype... media type="custom" key="3976281"

Creating a Skype account... media type="custom" key="3976339"

The basics of using Skype... media type="custom" key="3999655" 

Technical and Instructional Support
Students in Rutherford County Schools have recently communicated with classrooms in Australia and Belize using VoIP tools. It is best to be sure some preliminary testing is done between all parties involved with a lesson using VoIP tools to iron out any technical glitches and provide the most pleasing experience possible for the students (and the teacher). //Contact your Instructional Technology personnel if you need any assistance or have questions about integrating Skype into your curriculum.// The following links provide some great tips for teachers who would like to use Skype in the classroom for distance learning experiences:
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 * [] (This one is a little dated, but still has some good ideas. The information on Skypecasting is obsolete. Skypecasts were discontinued in September of 2008.)
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 * [|Click here for help from the Skype website.]



Sites Needed
The following sites have downloads needed for running Skype and recording calls. //Please remember to contact your Instructional Technology personnel before downloading any software on school computers.//
 * [|Skype]
 * [|PowerGramo] for recording audio calls
 * [|Audacity] for editing recorded audio calls
 * Skype also provides access to additional plugins that can be downloaded from their Extras section. Two useful plugins are Supertintin and InnerPass. Supertintin allows the user to record audio and video calls. InnerPass allows the user to set up conferencing, file sharing, and screen sharing.