Skype+in+the+Classroom

I decided to use Skype during my prep period with another class in order to work out any issues that might arise. For this I read the book //If you give a mouse a cookie// to a first grade Title 1 class. The Title 1 teacher explained how she has such limited time with her groups of students that she does not get to integrate as much technology as she would like. The first grade students were able to see, hear and discuss the book with me through the use of Skype. The teacher was able to use this as a way to address many literacy standards and 21st Century skills as well. She explained that having good reading models for at-risk students to listen to is extremely important, as many of her students do not get this at home. I found that Skype can be an effective tool for use in this way and the experience was very enjoyable.

As I do not have a camera in my classroom, I brought a computer video camera from home. In order to use this on a regular basis, I will need to borrow/purchase a camera for my classroom.