|
|
|
Instant messaging is a great tool for synchronous, one-on-one exchanges. To send an instant message, the users must be acknowledged contacts (buddies). Instant messages are usually incredibly brief and ignore common writing conventions. You can set an IM tool to tell your contacts of your status (away, busy, out to lunch). If the IM tool is installed, you can have access to your contacts from any Internet connection. IM is a great for multi-taskers who can be on a conference call or working on a document and then replying to an IM as time allows. IM does allow the option to invite others into a conversation or set up a group chat. With broadband in many homes, newer IM tools are now including the ability to send voice and video.
How it works: a service forwards text to particular users. Programs: AOL Instant Messenger, Windows Messenger, iChat.
Students: IM is great for the reluctant talker in the classroom. Given time and means, many students will prefer this method of contact. Students could IM other students for assignment questions or even IM the teacher for advice or questions on a project.
Parents: Obviously IM is another way to contact a teacher. Parents sending kids off to college can use IM to have quick chats with their student.
Teachers: Teachers may want to have a separate IM identity for educational uses. This will let them appear online only when then choose to login to their educational identity.
Issues: Not at all secure and very easy for students to abuse classmates. There is generally an option to save an IM session, but it is rarely done.
Resources:
- Instant Messaging Project http://www.ic.sunysb.edu/Stu/kherrel/index_files/page0004.htm
- Messaging Mania http://www.timeforkids.com/TFK/class/wr/article/0,17585,447326,00.html
- iChat http://www.apple.com/ichat/download
- AOL Instant Messenger http://www.aim.com
- Windows Messenger http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/windowsmessenger
|
|
|
