Journal 9 - Playing with Skype - NETS 5

Weller, Travis. (2010). Playing with Skype.  Learning & Leading with Technology 37(6).  Retreived from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=March_April_No_6_1&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4516&ContentID=25508&DirectListComboInd=

This article is about a teacher who used Skpe to bring composers of school band music to connect with the students who play his/her music.  He first invited a freelance musician and licensing agent into the classroom for 45 minutes using Skype to discuss copyright laws, the music business, and censorship.  Later, he had the idea to use Skype at a live concert.

The equipment needed to “skype” for an audience at a concert is minimal, according to the author: a computer with a broadband Internet connection, a data projector, a couple of microphones, a webcam, some adapters for audio, and a projector screen.  He obtained this hardware for his school through a grant.  He utilized local college students, and the technology coordinator at the school. 

Three noted composers were brought to the concert via Skype.  The composers introduced their pieces before the student ensembles performed them.  This turned into an interactive conversation that made for a richer educational experience that was well worth the time it took to coordinate. 

This was all done using a free version of Skype found on the website.  Two of the composers were first time users of Skype and had no problems. 

Skype makes it possible to bring experts into the classroom.  It widens the possibilities for students. 

What if something goes wrong?  It seems a bit risky to me to use it at a concert.  Of course, there are lots of factors that make it less/more risky.  Interesting, also, that two of the composers had never used Skype before, but seemingly easily agreed.  I have used it once, and recently had a friend in Azerbaijan ask if we could use Skype. 

How open are “experts” to sharing their time and knowledge in the classroom?  I wonder if some experts just consider themselves “too busy” or if some would turn down the opportunity because of their own lack of familiarity with the technology?  I think it is great for expanding the walls of the classroom though.