Thanks to the Skype Education site (http://education.skype.com/) our class had connected with a 5th grade class in Arizona and kindergarteners in Boston. We work with our friends in both states 1-2 times each month. Skype Education allows you to post what kinds of classes you're looking for and describe the experiences you'd like to have with them. Discussing trees in science? Find out if there are classes who'd like to share the trees in their region with you! Want to discuss holiday traditions around the world? Make a post requesting classes from other countries to work with you!
Below is a video of our friends in Arizona reading to us during our "Celebrate Reading Week" at school. Each child in the 5th grade class read a page from a book to our class. When they were done, my students stood up in with their guided reading groups and read a book together to the 5th graders. Such a motivating experience that built up their confidence as readers! I
My point? Make on of your New Year's resolutions to utilize technology more! Throw open the doors of our classroom and welcome in students from around the state, country, and even the world. See what happens with just a little bit technology, some creativity, and a whole lot of fun!
Would love to hear the ideas you come up with and hey, maybe our class can Skype with yours!!
