Communication Tools

I had a lot of fun learning how to use Skype, Gabcast, and Yak Pak on Thursday. Overall, Skype was definitely my favorite. Skype was neat in the fact that you could talk to and view the other person. Skype was very user friendly and easy to operate. I could definitely see using Skype in the classroom. Skype could be used to communicate between 2 classes, to complete book club discussions using the conference call, and maybe even allowing an older student to read to a younger student.

The Yak Pack web tool was neat as well! However, I did not find it as easy to operate as Skype. There are too many things that have to be done exactly right in order for the Walkie Talkie Widget to work. I could definitely see using Yak Pack in my classroom in much the same way as Skype. However, much explanation would need to be given before its implementation.

I also really liked GabCast. The process of using the cell phone to make a message was amazing. Gabcast helped make my blog unique by playing my own message. I do not foresee using Gabcast in my class! However, it is a very neat piece of technology.

Overall, implementation of these communication tools would take a lot of planning. I myself would need to locate/purchase web cameras, speakers, and headphones for my students. Most importantly I would also need my principals permission before using any of these web-based tools.