When connecting around the state, country, or the world, there are many things to consider. That is why you should give yourself plenty of time to research and develop a collaborative connection. The best video conferences are those that are well-planned. Make sure to ask for advice from those who know video conferencing.
Please comment on the following:
How can connecting to students and experts outside of your own school be beneficial to your students?
Return to CONNECTIONS ABROAD Wiki Page
Return to CONNECTIONS ABROAD Wiki Page
22 comments:
I looked at some of the projects listed on the Torfaen wiki and can see pursuing a couple of the projects. The Torfaen wiki is an excellent resource.
Christine, GV BOCES
Excellent opportunities.
It's a small world after-all! The students would not be able to learn this from a book! WOW!
Stephanie, GST
I think setting up collaborations with countries around the world would be an amazing opportunity for all of our students, no matter what the subject area is. Also teacher collaboration about staff development as well.
Kim Texter
E2
The connection with Wales was quite good, but the audio with peru was not clear. Perhaps that is because of the quality of his microphone. I can see how using Skype or other alternatives are not as powerful as with the polycom or tanberg equipment.
I too was looking at the project list available w/Torfaen as made a list of some I would like to try out. I also glanced at the scheduling availability and thought that was neat the way you can just put yourself in with another school. Lots of great ideas for elementary students.
Paula Levandoski, E2
I think there must be a videoconferencing opportunity for every content area! I will definitely be sharing this information with my building staff.
Loved it. Great opportunities for many content areas here. Fantastic way to connect with other people from all over the world!
I am so excited! I found so many great ideas on the TWICE site! I appreciated seeing Peru and Wales. Thank you!
Unbelievable - I am going to share this connection with our director of curriculum and instruction. I'd love to be able to present what I have learned to our curriculum council.
Barb, e2
Vincent P.
When our English friend connected with China did she have to have permission from the Chinese Government first? Does the government have to approve all material first?
Very interesting to see how this is being used internationally. I'd like to see if I can tap into some resources across the pond.
Paul Mihalko - (E-2)
I like the idea that my students and I can connect to experts from all over the world. Students and teachers can broaden thier understanding and heighten appreciation about other cultures.
Gst
Loved it! I wonder if it would be possible to include a link on the wiki an option to post video or images and text to share some of the experiences that schools have had in these projects.
Judy k
This is a wonderful opportunity not only for connecting with anouther country, but also as a way to make the learning experience much fuller.
Conferencing with another school to share curricular ideas would be amazing!
-Ben, GST
It is great for students to see what is out in this world and that even with large distances between us we can speak face to face and make personal contacts.
I see so much potential with these conferences fro education to world peace
This is a great way for students to learn another culture. I could possibly use this in my sixth grade class as we explore ancient civilizations around the world. The sites to help find a partner will definitely be beneficial.
Christina, GST
I had a similar question as Vincent regarding governmental permission to connect - particularly with China! I am also wondering if those countries have some other restrictions on content/permissions.
Theresa - E2CCB
The conference from Peru was a bit difficult to understand whether due to equipment or other. However, it does serve as a reminder that careful planning needs to take place in case of technical difficulties, lang.barriers,etc. Preparation is key. The Wales video was very good and clear. Would love to use some of the Torfaen wiki ideas!
There are so many possibilities with this. It opens up the world!!
I would definitely like to connect internationally with a class for literature discussions, or something like it.
However, it is difficult to "get over" all the technical difficulties. Many teachers would shy away from an activity that would put them in a situation like this. I'm sure that that shyness is overcome with experience, and that you probably "get used to it".
You could see here how important it would be to prepare your class with questions, etc. before the connection!
Craig- GST
Very interesting! Amazing talent from these students. I will certainally share with the fifth grade teachers at my school.\Cindy, GST
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