Technologies Used: Webcams, Skype
Authors: Dr. Anthony Fernando & Dr. Michael Henderson
Description of Activity
During my PhD candidature, I used the free software program Skype to stay in touch with my supervisors. Skype facilitates free video conferencing over the Internet and I found it to be an invaluable communication tool. During my PhD I used Skype to:
- have regular meetings with my supervisors
- seek immediate help during ‘crisis’ moments
- send my supervisor drafts of my thesis
- work through my examiners reports with my supervisors
- save time and money by staying at home instead of traveling to Monash
Pedagogy
By facilitating face-to-face conversation, Skype provides users with a rich media connection that offers many of the advantages of a physical face-to-face meeting
Wider Literature
Unwin, T. (2007) Reflections of supervising distance-based PhD students
Related Resources
Quick Tip Sheet: How To Set Up Skype
To cite this article please use the following:
Fernando, A. & Henderson, M. (2009). Using Skype To Connect With HDR Students. In M.Henderson & A.Fernando (Eds) Online Teaching Centre. Faculty of Education: Monash University.
