Blogging, Skyping and Langwitches

So much to share from this morning. Attended a workshop with Silvia Tolisano at Pomaria School out in West Auckland. So what has enthused me?

Skyping - yes, I've used it before but seeing how other classes use Skype and the wealth of learning that can take place before and after the Skype session is reinvigorating. We Skyped with a Grade 5 class in Jacksonville, Florida, USA. Check out their school, class and individual blogs at http://www.mjgds.org/ and http://www.mjgds.org/students . There should be a blog entry and video of the Skype up there soon.

Before Skyping - preparation and research. Find out about the people you will be Skyping with - where they live, what they do, ... Prepare questions to ask about a specific topic. There should be a purpose to the Skype session. Practice asking the questions. http://langwitches.wikispaces.com/Around+The+World+With+Skype . This wiki page includes, among other brilliant ideas, roles that students can have during the Skype session.

After Skyping - use students' enthusiasm to lead further learning. Questions may arise from what they saw and heard. Document your Skype - video it, take still pics, add it to your class or individual blogs...