me arts ed

Skype? ichat? YouTube, TeacherTube, Electronic conversations?

Every so often I am energized by something I learned with and/or about technology. I walk away with a new twist in my thinking or headed in a different direction. My father in law refers to this as “getting your hat blowed off”. He often uses this when he is involved in a days activity and something happens that causes a change of direction. I find that more and more “my hat gets blowed off”!

Paul Janeczko

Recently, I got an email from Maine author Paul B. Janeczko who was sharing the work he is involved in right now. I met Paul when I was visiting Leavitt High School during an arts week that music educator Bill Buzza had planned a couple of years ago. His use of technology, specifically Skype, is an idea that is helping me think about my direction.

Paul is thrilled to be having 3 books coming out in the next 6 months, all very different from each other: a new book of poems (about a Nazi concentration camp), a nonfiction book on spies, and a teacher book from Heinemann.

A new twist in his work is that he is offering Skype “visits” to schools. He said that “young readers are often bursting with questions they’d like to ask an author, and Skype offers a way for them to ask their questions.” He has two programs that he offers:

1. Schools can book Paul for an in-person visit and they receive a 10-pack of poetry activities. Prior to his visit he does a 15 minute Skype visit. This gives the students a chance to “see” him and ask a few questions which prepares them for his visit.
2. A 60-minute Skype session is the other option which is worthwhile for students and teachers.

Paul is willing to travel anywhere in Maine and last year especially enjoyed his time in Aroostook County and plans to return this year. If you’re interested in learning more please contact Paul at poetguy@megalink.net

And when you are thinking about using technology, think about Skype and the opportunities it affords you as a professional and what it offers your students as learners.