Skype: Advantages, Disadvantages, and Other Information

Skype allows people to have contact with each other through the use of a webcam and the internet. Because of Skype, users can keep in touch with friends all over the world. It is most free, however there is a fee for certain uses such as calling phones from Skype, access WiFi, or send texts. Skype can be downloaded at http://skype.com.

Advantages of Skpe:

• Downloadable, free software
• Connect with friends all over the world
• Telemedicine
• Cheap (for when you have to pay)
• Save money on phone bills

Disadvantages of Skype:

• Can be slow
• Have to be connected to the Internet
• A lot of people can find you and add you, even if contacts can be blocked
• Requirements (computer, webcam)
• Need to pay for some of the uses

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6oEEp7Ny7o

In addition to personal communication among peers, Skype is also used extensively in educational, corporate and medical settings. In a study conducted by Pavel Samsonov, an associate professor of educational technology at the University of Louisianna at Lafayette, Skype was used to test the effectiveness of learning at various K-12 school districts. One particular student who was homebound due to a complicated pregnancy admitted that she would have dropped out of school were it not for Skype. As concluded by Samsonov, “Skype technology can be effective in providing the homebound with an almost ‘being there’ opportunity to be involved in the classroom learning” (Herbert, 20). Before the development of this online tool, many students would have been held back due to illness or pregnancy. This modern application permits students in serious circumstances to remain current with their academic responsibilities. Moreover, Skye permits students to chat with each other as well as their teachers in real time. This student-teacher interaction encourages socialization and improves retention levels. With the recent rise in home-schooled students, Skype proves to be an invaluable learning tool.