In the past year, several in-home tutors have used Skype with their students. If you're unfamiliar, Skype is a free program that lets you use your computer to call another user and communicate in real time, with or without a video interface. You need an Internet connection, a webcam, and a microphone. If you have a standalone webcam or a laptop computer, the microphone is usually integrated with the camera.you can also use Skype with a smartphone.
For our purposes, using the video interface is preferred because it's the next-best-thing to a face-to-face conversation.
Many of our in-home students have a computer at home, either their own or for the children to use for schoolwork. Your student may not be computer literate, but Skype doesn't require that. Some simple point-and-click mouse skills will do!
How could you use Skype as a tutor?
- Check in between lessons
- Do a short "live" lesson if you're away from home and can't make your regular session
- Practice speaking and listening skills with your student
- Help with homework
Use your imagination. Skype is free and easy to use. If your student is from Iraq, chances are she (or he) already uses Skype to keep in touch with family overseas. Go to the Skype website for more information. If you have used Skype with your student, please share your thoughts about the experience in the comments section.
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