This screenshot was taken from http://www.skype.com/en/

 

Skype is a free application that can be used for audio and video conferencing as well as instant messaging. Skype users can call contacts from around the world with the touch of a button and they can even call regular phone numbers if they pay for the call.

Skype conferencing does not have as much use inside the classroom as it does outside of the classroom. Outside of the classroom, teachers can allocate time for Q & A conferences. The best part about this is that it does not take much time out of a teacher's day. They can stay logged into their Skype while they are doing other things on the computer and then if a student has a question, they can contact the teacher. Here is a video i found on Skype that addresses the effectiveness that Skype can have for students in the 21st century.

Retrieved from: https://education.skype.com/

Skype could help remove some of the barrier for certain learners because it of the different ways that knowledge can be transmitted from peer to peer. One thing that really helps me in my own studies is the "share-screen" feature that Skype offers. This way, students can collaborate with one another either through voice comminication or messaging, while showing eachother their work. Skype offers a variety of options that make the app useable for students around the world, despite what kind of learner they are or what disabilities they might have. 

Skype can be used by students of all ages. It might be useful to have the assistance of a parent for younger students until they are able to navigate the app. Generally, Skype is  easy to navigate once you add your contacts.