JISC Online Conference proceedings

The JISC online conference proceedings on institutional innovation are now available online: HERE.

Check out the summary of Giedre & my presentation: Cochrane, T., & Kligyte, G. (2007, 11-14 June). Dummies2delight: Using communities of practice to develop educational technology literacy in tertiary academics. Paper presented at the JISC online conference: Innovating eLearning, JISC online conference. Pages 36-38.

We discussed Communities of Practice for professional development, and the use of web2 technologies. JISCebookone2007.pdf

TruTap

http://trutap.com is a mobile Java client for social networking. It includes:

• Instant Messaging – MSN, AOL, Yahoo, ICQ
• Messaging (cf email)
• Blog Posting – Blogger, Flickr, etc…

It’s interface is somewhat clunky – no where near as smooth & mature as Shozu. Worth keeping an eye on.

7 things you should know about Skype: Educause

Another short paper in the Educause 7 Things series:

Abstract:

Skype is a voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) application that lets users make free phone calls between Skype-equipped computers and inexpensive calls between Skype computers and landline or cell phones. Skype functions on a P2P model rather than as a centralized application, and it offers features such as voicemail, call forwarding, conference calling, and video chat. In most circumstances, Skype provides access to voice and video communication for a fraction of what other options cost. It allows more frequent contact between colleagues, collaborators, and friends and permits connections with those not likely to be in conventional phone systems.

Download PDF.

Social Network Sites: History & Scholarship

An interesting journal article:

Abstract

“Social network sites (SNSs) are increasingly attracting the attention of academic and industry researchers intrigued by their affordances and reach. This special theme section of the Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication brings together scholarship on these emergent phenomena. In this introductory article, we describe features of SNSs and propose a comprehensive definition. We then present one perspective on the history of such sites, discussing key changes and developments. After briefly summarizing existing scholarship concerning SNSs, we discuss the articles in this special section and conclude with considerations for future research.”

The paper includes a timeline of Social Network Sites (SNS’s)

iSkoot

iSkoot is a free Skype client for a wide range of mobile phones!

iSkoot puts Skype on
your mobile phone.
Now offered on the P1i from Sony Ericsson!

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

1. Easy installation:**

Option 1: iSkoot can send you a link to our free software in an email or SMS text message–just request it when you register!

Option 2: Download to your PC and transfer to your handset using its Bluetooth® or infrared port or your USB cable.

2. Simple, intuitive user interface

• Click to call a Skype contact

• Click to chat with a Skype contact

• Make inexpensive international calls using SkypeOut

• Receive Skype calls on your mobile

• Manage your online presence

• Check the online status of your friends, family and colleagues

You can even create a new Skype Account, right on your mobile handset

3. High quality audio for all your calls

4. Optimized software for each supported handset type

5. iSkoot’s network coverage is now worldwide

6. On-line documentation

7. Free user support