Skype Announces Collaboration to Provide Education Resources

Skype announces today it’s latest education initiative, a collaboration with Penguin Group, New York Philharmonic, Science Museum London, Peace One Day, and Save the Children to provide educators access to digital content and expert speakers via video calling.
“Skype in the classroom is excited to collaborate with stellar, like-minded organizations to bring relevant content directly to innovative teachers who are looking to create unforgettable shared learning experiences for their students,” said Tony Bates, president of the Skype Division at Microsoft. “We are dedicated to making education accessible via technology, and will continue to look for ways to remove barriers to communications and connect to classrooms across the globe.”
Skype strives to enrich learning experiences for its 28,000 registered teachers in over 190 countries by connecting students to new cultures, languages and ideas from the comfort of the classroom. According to today’s media release, Skype in the classroom now features the following educational content:

• Penguin Young Readers Group will connect authors, such as Adam Gidwitz, Caroline Lawrence and Nancy Krulik, with students for discussions about books, reading and writing; 
• The New York Philharmonic offers live interaction with musicians and educators, beginning with an exploration of Billy the Kid -the man and the legend- through the lens of Aaron Copland’s 1939 ballet;
• Registered teachers have the opportunity to link directly to the free Skype supported Peace One Day Global Education Resources and to inspire and educate their students about the importance of peace in the modern world. Students can also connect with Peace One Day Founder, Jeremy Gilley and listen to his inspirational story, questioning him on all aspects of his incredible journey to institutionalize Peace Day, 21 September; and
• Save the Children and the Science Museum, London will have individual projects on Skype in the classroom by the end of the year.

“As a global leader in children’s publishing, we are thoroughly committed to seeding a student’s growing mind and help them fulfill their dreams,” said Pearson Foundation President and CEO Mark Nieker, “We are honored to collaborate with Skype in the classroom as we understand the monumental impact we can offer teacher’s educational curriculum.”
For more information or to register for Skype in the classroom, please visit http://education.skype.com.