Journal #4 - Playing with Skype - NETS 5

As a member of ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education), I read Learning and Leading With Technology, an online journal published bimonthly that contains articles about the effective use of existing and emerging digital tools. I evaluated, reflected, and wrote Journal Reflections on this current research and professional practice on a regular basis. Teachers and researchers write articles in the journal sharing what is effective for educators using technology in the classroom in support of student learning. I summarized and evaluated the articles as well as posed and answered two questions relating to each article.

Weller, T. (2010). Playing with skype. Learning & Leading with Technology, 37(6), Retrieved from https://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=March_April_No_6_1&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4516&ContentID=25508&DirectLismboInd=

The author discusses his experiences with Skype as a music teacher. He created with basic technology an interactive musical experience with composers and his students using Skype. He provides a link to Skype for the reader of the article. I have not personally used this telecommunication product, although I have heard of it and seen its ads. Skype connects friends and family around the world and provides a free product on its site that people can use. As I was reading the article, I was wondering if and when the author would describe in detail how Skype works. I believe the article fell short in explaining how it works. He could have first introduced it in his first paragraphs. The article was brief, but it left me wanting to know more and research it further. He mentioned how other subject matter besides music could be enhanced by the use of outside experts. Students would definitely benefit by engaging the expert in questions and discussions. To receive personal instruction from someone like a composer of the piece a class is playing is invaluable. Today's students are fortunate to have technology like Skype and virtual field trips that did not exist a generation ago.

Question #1: How much does Skype cost for international calls and landlines?

In perusing the site, I noticed that not all calls are free. In making global connections to "flatten" classrooms, Skype would definitely be a valuable resource.

Question #2: How does Skype differ exactly from videoconferencing technology products from companies like Tanberg that are used for interactive Virtual Field Trips(VFTs)?

I am aware of the cost of videoconferencing products. I assume the big difference is the cost. I wonder how much of a difference and which applications would be better served using Skype?