SKYPE AN AUTHOR

What does "SKPYE AN AUTHOR" mean, you might ask? I too found myself asking that question after the opportunity was brought to my attention by a tech savey teacher in northern NJ who was looking for a way to invite me into their classroom to speak about the Orphan Train Movement, but did not think the school's budget would be able to swing the speaking/travel fees associated with my visit. Sure, that's a great idea I responded, having no idea what I was agreeing to.

What to do? QUICK! Do some research on SKYPE.....turns out it's a way to speak - like a phone service - from computer to computer. It's free of charge if both people have a SKYPE account (which is also free) and the only other thing you need is a microphone and speakers. OKAY....got that! But wait, there's more. You want the students to be able to see me in real time on the White Board at the front of the auditorium??? SURE! No problem. GEEZ! What did I just agree to? How do I make that happen? QUICK! More research.... Google Search for "Skype an Author" and low and behold, many authors are already doing this! Okay, click on http://www.skypeanauthor.wetpaint.com/ ... well, look at that. Step by step instructions on how to become an author who "SKYPES" - complete with recommendations on what webcam to purchase to obtain the best quality presentation. Webcam purchased, hubby helps out by hooking everything up, and TAA DAA! SKYPE AN AUTHOR ready to go!

Now that I am official....I figure why not go for broke! Back to the website and sign up to be on the list of authors that skype - here's my page! http://skypeanauthor.wetpaint.com/page/Donna+Aviles

After a test session to get the kinks out, I am set to go with my first SKYPE presentation to over 200 5th graders in Northern NJ on April 13th. And if that isn't exciting enough..... a second school has already found me through my wetpaint link above and scheduled a SKYPE presentation for mid-May!

Could this be the future of Classroom Author Visits????? I'll keep you posted!