How would you use Skype with your students?

Skype has initiated a new service called SkypeIn, which allows Skype users to purchase a phone number (available only in selected countries), allowing them to receive calls from non-Skype users calling on a regular telephone.

It is possible to send instant messages from a GSM mobile phone to Skype users, using a free service. A software answering machine service (SAM) is also available for Skype. Skype calls can be recorded (using a dedicated program such as HotRecorder or other audio software such as Powergramo). Some bloggers are recording interviews or conference calls with Skype, saving the files as MP3s and then posting them to their blogs (SkypeCasting).

Take a look at the following Resource list on how other teachers are using Skype to enhance learning

• Skype free Internet telephone software
• Skype Tips from Michael Gough
• Skype and class-to-class voice exchange Eric Hagley describes his use of Skype in ESL
• Skype and Moodle about integrating the two tools
• Linking Language Students with Skype (in moodle) from Eric Hagley
• HotRecorder allows recording of Skype calls
• SkypeCasting podcasting of Skype recordings
• Skypecasting, the new trend in peer-to-peer file sharing
• Your Network of Skype Users: Language Learning site to connect language learners using Skype
• The Mixxer language partners through Skype
• Find a Language Exchange Partner from mylanguageexchange.com (using Skype or similar tools)
• Russian lessons via Skype from training-classes.com
• Learn Languages by Phone site and tools for professionals

How would you use Skype with your learners in a business context?

•   How this teacher in Argentina is using Skype with her Toefl students http://snipurl.com/3fygu may give you some ideas to add here.
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Jennifer Verschoor

www.jenverschoor.wordpress.com

Buenos Aires, Argentina