Using Skype in the Second and Foreign Language Classroom Article Review

Summary: This article is from a presentation given to teachers at Language Acquisition Resource Center (LARC) at San Diego State University on August 4, 2010
introduced Skype and how it can be used to connect teachers with other professionals, work as a tool for tutors, be a stepping stone for using technology in language learning classrooms, and save on long distance charges. The authors found that, Skype is an effective way to experiment with technology, while minimizing the risk of things going wrong. Skype use can help increase teacher’s technology literacy and also can increase their confidence of using the application in the classroom. Presenter Sarah Eaton believes that Sykpe is a natural fit for cross cultural learning and for learning foreign languages. An additional benefit to Skype is that it serves as an excellent stepping stone to more complex technologies both for teachers and students. Skype can also be used for inter-school debates. Eaton’s main focus was the potential for using Skype in language learning classes around the world. If students can see and hear other students from different countries, they can hear and use the authentic language and can better understand the global economy.
Issues: As with most technology, the main issues are cost and misuse. Because Skype is free, however, cost is not as big of a problem. The issue of misuse occurs in most Web 2.0 technologies. Schools would need to decide how best to use Skype and how to integrate it into the curriculum. Another common theme that occurs in discussion of interactive technology is the problem of making teachers obsolete. I would argue that though Skype is useful, nothing can truly substitute for a live person interacting with other people. That human element is lost in pixels and blue lights.
References:
Eaton, S. (2010). Using Skype in the Second and Foreign Language Classroom. Online Submission, Retrieved from ERIC database.