Skype: Welcoming Guest Speakers One Video Call at a Time

The modern communication device Skype has revolutionized computer to computer interaction by allowing users to instant message, chat via microphones, or video chat via webcams simultaneously. With all of this versatility, many teachers have begun incorporating Skype into their classrooms. One possible scenario in which Skype could be advantageous in a classroom setting could be to utilize guest lecturers. Live video feed via Skype would allow busy professionals to virtually enter the classroom and speak without actually having to travel to the school. It is not always possible for a person to travel to the classroom site due to time or cost restraints, but these guests can still impart their knowledge onto or take questions from students via Skype.

Allowing guests to speak to a class via Skype can be very beneficial for students, but it also has some drawbacks. Having a speaker in person often will better engage students and hold their attention longer simply due to physical presence. Being in person also would allow for more interaction between the students and speakers if they were to utilize volunteers for a skit or demonstration, for instance. Also, a guest speaker who actually travelled to the classroom could bring other visuals or objects that could be passed around for students to physically touch and engage with rather than just see via webcam. However, it is not always possible for the speakers to enter the classroom, so Skype makes an excellent substitute for these situations and benefits students by still allowing them to hear what a speaker has to say.