Videoconferencing



There are two different ways in which you can use video conferencing: 1) class to class communication, and 2) virtual field trips. Class to Class Communication Class to class communication is accomplished by two classes contacting each other through Skype. media type="custom" key="3882749" is a communication site that has free downloadable software that allows you to talk to other Skype members without cost. By downloading Skype (which is an icon on the Logitech Webcam Pro 9000's tool bar) you can talk, instant message (IM) or make video calls for free!

Here are some examples of Class to Class Communication through Skype TAG project sharing: The Cactus Ranch TAG classes got to videoconference with Fern Bluff TAG and share some of their favorite projects. Cactus Ranch shared some of their personal research projects (about 9/11 and the assassination of John F. Kennedy) and some geometric shape activities. Fern Bluff shared their experiences in designing and programming robots with Lego Mindstorm.



TAG math Jeopardy: The Cactus Ranch TAG class went head to head against the Fern Bluff TAG class in a TAKS math Jeopardy game. Using the "Share Screen" option in Skype, CRE was able to show a Jeopardy PowerPoint at around 80% of the screen, a Skype window showing Fern Bluff students at 10% of the screen, and a Logitech window showing Cactus Ranch students at the last 10% of the screen. Materials needed for this activity include: class set of personal white boards and dry erase markers, bell, Skype account, laptop with Internet access and projector, Webcam, and pre-made Jeopardy powerpoint game.

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4th Grade Debate: One of our 4th grade classes engaged in a debate with another 4th grade class from Louisville, Kentucky. The topic was "Should kids be able to spend their allowance the way they want to, or should parents be in charge?" The teachers were in contact for a month before the debate in order to determine the format.

Some Tips for Videoconferencing Arranging the room and equipment: Videoconferencing Behavioral Expectations (some are borrowed from NASA Event Guidelines) :
 * Place the projector on a cart (it will be attached to the computer + WebCam so it can project the image onto the screen for everybody to see, but it needs to be on separate carts/desks)
 * Place the computer + WebCam on a seperate cart/desk closer to the front of the room (this will give the audience you are conferencing with a better view of the room)
 * Move desks out of the way (unless you have a VERY small group); either have students sit in a group on the floor, or have them sit in rows of chairs. *It's very important that you place the WebCam in front of the screen where the images are being projected - this gives the illusion of eye contact with the audience
 * If possible, connect the computer to speakers

How do you connect with classes who want to videoconference?
 * "A Video teleconference is a two-way event. Students and [presenters] can see and hear one another.
 * Students are respresenting their school; they should be on their best behavior.
 * Students should be prepared to [interact and respond with audience].
 * Students should speak...in a loud, clear voice."
 * Do not fidget with any papers or other objects; make eye contact with the person speaking.

media type="custom" key="3494206" A database where teachers can post collaboration project ideas and connect with others who are interested in partnering. media type="custom" key="3087118" A comprehensive look at the educational uses of videoconferencing for teachers, librarians, students, administrators, technology coordinators, and others interested in the use of this technology. media type="custom" key="3986971" An educational directory wiki where classroom teachers can connect. media type="custom" key="3986977" Linda and Richard are currently scheduling school author visits around the world via Skype. Schools with even the tightest budgets are able to visually connect with Rick and Linda and share interactive sessions between the authors and students – talking about their books, about the creative process, and about what living in Mexico is really like.  media type="custom" key="3987005" This wiki has been created to showcase the videos and information learned during our 50 States collaboration project. R.A. Mitchell Elementary is a K - 5 school located in Gadsden, Alabama. We would like to video conference with a K-5 school in each of the 50 states in the United States.

Virtual Field Trips

Virtual field trips are accomplished by: 1) selecting a content provider that offers a program related to your curriculum (like museums, zoos, universities, and NASA), 2) setting up a time for contact, 3) reserving videoconferencing equipment from the district (our contact person is Larry Barnett - your campus ITS can help with this), 4) prepping your students with pre-activities, and 5) making contact.

For example: This year one of our 5th grade classes videoconferenced with NASA for a program called Space Bots. Students learned how NASA uses robotics technology to a great extent in its exploration of space. NASA provided some pre-videoconference activities: 1) a pre-quiz to see how much students knew about robotics, 2) a list of vocabulary words, 3) and three experiments/activities.



media type="custom" key="3494180" A list of content providers (created by the Schenectady City School District) that will collaborate with teachers to create virtual field trips for students. media type="custom" key="3494294" A "Yellow Pages" of content providers for virtual field trips.

What are some ideas for virtual field trips?
 * "Students organize and moderate a panel discussion with a dolphin trainer, fisherman, and animal rights activist as part of an ocean unit.
 * A librarian using document sharing technology, auxiliary input, or a whiteboard answers questions about research and actually demonstrates search queries using the online catalog.
 * Students connect with athletes at an Olympic Training Center for advice and feedback on sports, training, and health issues.
 * Students watch a play performed at a remote site followed by interaction with the actors.
 * Interview the author of a book that a class is reading.
 * Students meet with university advisors for admission counseling or interviews.
 * A remote teacher or student role-plays a historical or literary figure.
 * A graphic arts student shares a document with a professional or client for feedback and evaluation" (Video Conferencing for Learning).