Siemens in 2008 discussed collaboration briefly in the vlog and mentioned Skype in the process. He said that it was previously “seen as just not practical". Having had a Skype account since before Oprah, I would say that I shared that same sentiment until some potential uses were shared with me by another teacher. Technologically savvy K12 schools, institutes of higher learning, and Oprah continue to demonstrate what a great tool Skype is for getting people together to discuss events and other important issues when people are located all over the world.
Those demonstrations along with the need to increase engagement and collaboration of students, increase the credibility of online distance education. It also enriches the learning experience of both teachers and students.
With that being said, Skype and videoconferencing are not the only tools used for the purpose of collaboration. Google docs, wikis, blogs (including micro blogs), vlogs, social networking sites, and Second Life are also used to bring people together to work toward common goals. Again, these tools enrich learning experiences but it doesn’t end there. These same platforms are also used for things like corporate training and software troubleshooting because of the increased levels of effectiveness in these types of delivery formats.
I personally, in my educational pursuits, find Skype, Facebook, and Google docs as the most effective means with which to collaborate with classmates and believe that they have not only made this experience distinctly different from prior experiences with F2F instructional delivery but have given a certain type of “smoothness” to the collaboration process that isn’t had when meeting over coffee or talking on the phone.
http://sylvan.live.ecollege.com/ec/crs/default.learn?CourseID=4007778&Survey=1&47=6141513&ClientNodeID=984645&coursenav=1&bhcp=1
http://travelinedman.blogspot.com/search?q=collaboration
http://www.teachingdegree.org/2009/06/30/50-awesome-ways-to-use-skype-in-the-classroom/
6 comments:
You discuss that you were not aware of the full possibilities of skype until a colleague brought to your attention. What are some ways you feel that you can show benefits to peers and students regarding use of the product?
The best way to show the benefits and possibilities of Skype is through demonstration. Show them what can be done through its usage and show them how others are using it.
Dolly,
Thanks for the link about how to use skype in the classroom! You are awesome!
Donna,
The "smoothness" idea is interesting. I think there is much to be said of this idea relative to online learning. It may be that the medium itself requires a level of concentration by participants in a virtual meeting space that is not necessary, for example, in a coffee shop. Good stuff.
Marlon,
I like your comments referencing a coffee shop. The idea of getting away from the office or campus is valuable, especially when viewing a product like Skype. Great suggestion.
Post a Comment