Telecommunication

=Skype=

What is Skype?
[|Skype] is a form of [|VoIP] (Voice-over-Internet Protocol). VoIP allows for voice transmission over the Internet; essentially, Internet phone calls. With Skype, both audio and audio/video calls can be made around the world to other Skype users **for free**. You can also text chat in realtime (like Instant Messenger), [|conduct conference calls], and even do fun stuff like play chess and share a whiteboard.

How Do I Get It?

 * 1) Download and install the program at Skype's [|download page]
 * 2) Double-click the Skype icon on your desktop to install. Follow the on-screen directions to install Skype and create your account username and password.
 * 3) Open Skype from your desktop, Quick Launch menu, or system tray.
 * 4) Under the "Contacts" tab, use the Search function to find family members, friends, or colleagues who have Skype accounts. You can search by real name, Skype username, or e-mail address.

How Do I Use It?
Open Skype and select the "Contacts" tab:



Click on a contact's name. You will see two green buttons: one for calling with video, and one for calling without. There is also an option to chat IM-style at the bottom of your screen.



If This Is Free, Why Do They Sell Rate Packages?
Like many Internet-based services, Skype offers a basic access package for free and allows users to pay to access more features. Here's a quick (read: incomplete) guide to what's free and what's not on Skype. Skype sells a variety of headsets, webcams, handsets, and mobile phones that work off the Skype network. Some folks find them invaluable for communicating while traveling, especially abroad, but they are not a prerequisite to using any of Skype's free features.
 * ~ FREE ||~ NOT FREE ||
 * < Skype-to-Skype voice calls (worldwide) ||< Skype calls to landlines ||
 * < Skype-to-Skype video calls (worldwide) ||< Skype calls to mobile phones ||
 * < "IM"-style online chats ||< Receiving calls from landlines & mobiles ||
 * < Group chats ||< Sending SMS (text messages) ||
 * < Conference calls ||< Voicemail & call forwarding to non-Skype phones ||

=TinyChat=

What is TinyChat?
[|TinyChat] is similar to Skype in that it allows for real-time audio/video calling around the world. The two biggest differences are 1) TinyChat is completely free - there is no option to pay, and 2) TinyChat **does not require you to download any additional software** - everything is done in the web browser.

TinyChat is a great option for quick, "guerilla" videochatting when you are either away from your home computer or not everyone involved has Skype. To create a free, "disposable" video chat room:
 * Go to [|TinyChat.com]
 * Under "Create a New Chat", enter the name of your desired chatroom & click "Create"
 * Follow the prompts to set privacy/access settings
 * Click "Start Broadcasting" to allow TinyChat to access your microphone and webcam (if you have one)

Resources & Further Reading

 * [|Skype an Author Network]
 * [|Skype In Schools] (Directory of teachers seeking classes for Skype projects)
 * Bariexca, Damian. [|"Reach Out and Touch Someone"], //Apace of Change//