Learn. Share. Change Lives. | Digital Champions Network



Skype is a great hook for enticing reluctant learners, especially if they have family or friends in far-flung places. It’s free and all you need is:

• A headset with a microphone

• A webcam for video calls

• OR a laptop with a built in webcam and microphone

Setting up Skype

If you’re teaching on a public computer, you will need to check first whether it’s possible to use Skype. Depending on its speed, it may not be possible to have two people talking on Skype using the same internet connection. You may need to take a laptop and mobile dongle.

If setting up Skype for a learner on their own computer, make sure the privacy settings are set appropriately - you do this in Options in the Tools menu. And don't forget to explain how to block unwanted contacts (right click on the contact name and click Block This Person).

Using Skype with Windows 8.1

There is a new version of Skype for Windows 8.1 computers that has a 'live tile' on the Start screen showing missed calls and waiting messages. It also works automatically with the Windows 8.1 People App, where all your contacts are organised.

If it isn't already installed, you can install it from the Windows Store, using the Store tile on the Start screen. If your learners find the new-style Skype confusing, it is still possible to download a more traditional desktop version from the Skype website. You will need this desktop version if you want to share your screen with the other caller, if you want to show them what you can see on screen, Skype has a guide to show you how to do a ‘screen share’.

Using Skype on a tablet computer

Tablets are great for using Skype. Most have a camera on the front which works like a webcam for making video calls. All you need to do is download the free Skype app using the App Store on an iPad or Google Play on Android tablets. 

The iPad also has its own video calling app called FaceTime which works in a similar way to Skype but this only works on the iPad, iPhone and Apple computers.

Guides to using Skype

Have a look at the following guides to using Skype on the Digital Unite website:

• What is Skype? – A simple definition, plus a summary of Skype’s key features and benefits

• How to download Skype – A step-by-step guide to downloading this free program

• How to find Skype contacts – How to add contacts to your Skype account.

• How to make a Skype call – How to use your computer to ring one of your Skype contacts

• How to use Skype IM (Skype Chat) – This lets you chat to your Skype contacts via instant text messages and is a handy way of sending a document, picture or link

• How to buy Skype credit – By adding credit to your Skype account, you can make cheap calls to landline telephones and abroad

• How to Skype a landline or mobile – This isn’t free but it’s a lot cheaper than the rates charged by most phone companies

• What is VoIP? - A clear explanation of this commonly-used jargon

• How to install Skype with Windows 8, and How to use Skype on Windows 8 - step by step instructions for installing and using Skype (also applicable to Windows 8.1).

Quick activity 1 - check what you have learned already

“An elderly person with a degenerative illness affecting his speech, was becoming more and more difficult to understand on the telephone. His daughter phoned me during a session to ask if I could pass a message to him and relay back his response.

“I suggested trying a video call with Skype. With the video showing his facial expression, as well as an improved microphone, it was immediately possible for a proper conversation to take place.” Digital Champion

Write down two other situations where it might be useful to see the person to whom you are talking.

Quick activity 2 - How well do you know Skype?

Check your knowledge with this GCFLearn Skype quiz.

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