SKYPE: Up in the Sky

Skype is an extremely valuable tool, that could be used effectively in a classroom setting. A strong feature of Skype is its ability to connect anywhere in the world and all one needs is internet access, no money is necessary. Skype would be extremely useful in a class on International Relations. Students could connect with individuals in other nations and negotiate. Not only could they negotiate, but they could also speak in a different language. This would strengthen their business skills, negotiation skills, and language skills. The video conferencing ability is helpful too so the students can put a face to the voice and have a more personal, more realistic experience.

Possible limitations of my proposed plan can arise from time zone differences. It would be very difficult to find a time when a student in America and a student in Germany are in class at the same time. Additionally, skype can be useful in working on foreign language but there is also the possibility that one student doesn't speak the other students language and they would not be able to communicate. Lastly, it is possible that some foreign nations don't have as an expansive internet connection as we do in America. Perhaps one is trying to focus on international relations with Mozambique where students might not be connected to the internet as frequently.