Skype and Google Hangouts

This class has really opened my eyes to all the resources we really have at our fingertips.  I always considered myself to be somewhat knowledgeable when it comes to technology and with practice, I can usually figure things out on my own.  However, some of the resources we have used in this class so far, like blogging and Google hangouts, I would probably not try on my own.

Our last class, we had the opportunity to try two different Google hangouts and I really enjoyed be a part of them.  It was amazing to talk "face to face" with Kathy Cassidy and ask questions about her book and her experience using technology in her own classroom.  We also had the chance to try a "mystery" Skype, in which we had to ask questions to figure out where our guest was located.  This was my first time communicating through this way, and now I can absolutely see how helpful it could be in the classroom.

My school librarian has used Skype in order to talk with authors of different books the students love; however, not all the students are able to participate in this opportunity.  It is pretty much a first come, first serve type of sign up and if the students don't sign up early enough they do not get the chance.  One thing that I would really like to try in my classroom is a mystery Skype.  It would make the students use their map skills to figure out how to ask questions on the person's location.  It also requires the students to use their speaking and listening skills to accurately communicate in order pinpoint their location.   What a great way to help students learn Geography and connect with people in different locations!