Video conferencing allows students to meet each other in real time - a powerful experience for all. However, managing a
Classroom Connections via Video Conferencing with Young Learners Technology has given students and teachers amazing opportunities to make global connections to learn and share with each other. Video conferencing allows students to meet each other in real time - a powerful experience for all. However, managing a live video conference call with our younger students can be challenging and chaotic without careful preparation and structure. These guidelines were put together with teachers and students in Early Childhood and Primary classrooms in mind for planning and conducting meaningful & productive video conference calls but are applicable to all levels.
Guidelines Before: Planning with corresponding teacher ● Create an agenda ○ consider timeframe based on age of kids (i.e. 15 minutes for 3-5 year olds) ○ what topics to talk about ○ potential things to share (song, story, artwork, culture, etc) ● Choosing a day and time ○ time zone differences (if time zone difference is too big consider alternative below) ○ time of day ● Check on school’s photo/video permission restrictions ● Have a backup plan for contact in case of technical issues (i.e. email, iMessage, Skype chat) ● Test out tech and connection before event! Prep students ● expectations during video conference (listening, taking turns, sitting properly, speaking loudly and clearly, answer with elaboration - not just yes or no) ● have students come up with questions (asking open-ended questions, consider creating visuals for questions) ● do practice video conference before first scheduled one (get them familiar with experience, practice with another person or classroom at your school)
This document was inspired by involvement in the Traveling Teddy Bear Program
Guidelines During: ● Plan to start connecting for video conference at least 10 minutes before scheduled time ● Document the conversation ○ photos and video (maybe have 1 or 2 student recorders) ○ Tools for recording a Skype call (third party applications/software) ● Follow your agenda but be ready to be flexible ● Each side takes turn to ask questions and/or share something, such as books, songs or what the children decide ● Have fun! After: ● Debrief and reflect with students ● Download the conversation for reference (optional) ● Post a short clip or photos from the event on a blog and ask other participants to comment on the video ● Follow up with corresponding teacher to debrief and discuss potential plan for future collaboration/conversation
Resources How to Get Started with Skype in the Classroom Alternatives to Skype Google Hangout (requires Google Account and plug-in) Facetime iOS Devices On Mac appear.in (Up to 8 participants and no log in or downloads) Alternatives to live connection (to post videos and interact) Skype Video messaging VoiceThread Blogs Moxtra (digital collaboration tool) Created by Ann Lopez, Marina Rabelo and Diana Beabout Shekou International School
