An interesting email I got about how Skype and podcasting are used to create an interactive learning environment. In case of 1-on-1 coaching, the lesson typically remains between the student and the teacher. Here, you can listen to the sessions that others have had and so it’s a learning experience even if you just observe and don’t engage in a dedicated session yourself.

Dear Jaanus

Thanks for the news you provide through your ‘Skype Around the World’ blog. I’ve found the stories about innovative uses of Skype great reading!

I thought you might be interested in having a look at a podcast I produce weekly for advanced level English Language students. Students contact me to sign up for an interview through Skype. The interview is student driven and the content is determined by, for example, the particular exam they might be doing or a situation at work that they want to practise for such as an interview or meeting. The interviews are recorded using Powergramo and then posted as a podcast for other advanced learners to listen to. Each podcast features an introduction to the skill being looked at, the interview itself and then feedback from me on the student’s performance.
The podcast is hosted at podomatic: http://www.splendidspeaking.podomatic.com
I use podomatic to host these podcasts rather than my own dedicated website as I’m hoping that students will eventually use the service to create their own podcasts, using them perhaps for ther own informal audio-portfolio, where friends and teachers can offer feedback on interviews or monologues they may carry our independently of me. I also help run another site for esl learners called flo-joe. We have noticed a steady increase here in students working independently, peer reviewing each other’s writing tasks and the hope is I can help them to do the same with their speaking skills.
Hope you like it!

Best wishes

Pete

Peter Travis
http://www.splendid-speaking.com