Tech Stuff

New Earth Village Technology

What is Skype?

Skype is a phone service between computers that uses the internet to send the signal. Skype allows you to make free calls with no time limit to any computer in the world that is also a member of Skype. Skype allows conference calls of up to 100 parties - absolutely free. You can also make calls to landlines (regular telephones), however Skype charges a modest fee. See Tech Tools in Advisor for more about Skype and how to make it work for you.

We think Skype is an invaluable tool for collaborating with members on an initiative. Let's say a group of members want to develop a fire safety program. They get together on a Skype conference call to throw around some ideas, then agree to have another call in two weeks to share the ideas they've fleshed out.

On the second call, they can share their documents with each other by pushing a 'share screen' button. Each person then walks through their ideas while referring to their document that is viewable by the whole group. It's almost as good as being in the same room together. Yet you might be talking to people from three continents!

Could we set up a learning website for our community like New Earth Village's The Four Realms?

Yes. New Earth Village uses a free program called Moodle. Such programs are called learning management systems and offer huge potential for indigenous organizations to build their capacity as learning communities. Moodle is used by learning institutions all over the world.  Learn more about Moodle at www.moodle.org.