How do you use distance collaboration to enhance the classroom?

Hello all ... I was hoping for ideas on simply how to use distance collaboration in the classroom. I have used Skype personally but never in the classroom. I have registered with ePals in hopes to connect with students in a different part of the nation, continent, world ... but I was unsuccessful in finding a partner class last year. I would really like to use distance collaboration as a means for enhancing communication-- written and verbal. If anyone at all has suggestions for me, please let me know! I would love to get my students involved in this experience!

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Permalink Reply by Carol Teitelman on June 14, 2011 at 1:37pm

Have you checks out the multitude of collaborative projects at www.cilc.org. They span all grades and range from one day events to long term collaborative projects. The technology can be webcams, video conferencing equipment and/or virtual classrooms.

What grade level are you most interested in collaborating with?

Permalink Reply by Crystal Williamson on June 14, 2011 at 2:59pm

I teach fifth grade, 10 to 11-year-olds. I have not looked into this website. I did not really know where to start ... I'll check this out for sure! Thanks!

Permalink Reply by Carol Teitelman on June 14, 2011 at 3:04pm

Another good place to check is www.connect2texas.net. There are lots of teachers here who set up MysteryQuests and HistoryQuests that involve video conference collaboration. Don't worry if you aren't in Texas -it's open to everyone. You'll also want to check out TWICE at http://www.twice.cc/ and CAPSpace . And also make sure you look at Read Around the Planet.

Permalink Reply by Crystal Williamson on July 2, 2011 at 10:27am

Thank you so much for the information! I've looked through some of these briefly and it's definitely helped get the ideas flowing. Thank you for the help!

Permalink Reply by Susana Marcos on July 15, 2011 at 6:05pm