California Educator

November 2015

Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/602151

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TECH TIPS Text Messaging Grows Up By TERRY NG W H E R E W O U L D W E B E without text messaging? Once favored by teens only, it's now universally embraced by youth and adults alike. Running late to a meeting, or need a quick answer to a simple question? It's easier to text than make a call. e standard text messaging app that comes with your phone is great for short messages, but now there's a bevy of other apps with additional functionality. ese super apps allow instant messaging over the Internet as opposed to a phone network, and make your native messaging app dull in comparison. Here are some of the most popular. Remind Looking for a free, simple and safe way to instantly text students and parents? Try Remind. Send reminders, assignments, homework, assessments or motivational messages directly to students' and parents' phones while keeping your phone number (and others' numbers) private. Even students/parents without smartphones can use it too. SnapChat Enjoy fast and fun mobile conversation! Snap a photo or short video, add a caption, and send it to a friend. They'll view it, and then the Snap disappears from the screen — unless they take a screenshot. WeChat It's the all-in-one communications app for free text via SMS or MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service), voice and video calls, moments, photo sharing, and games. The app also lets you pay for products and services, including everything from personal loans to fitness tracking. WhatsApp A free messaging and calling app that allows you to connect easily with family and friends across countries. It uses your phone's data connection to avoid SMS (Short Message Service) and long distance charges. You can create group chats and send unlimited images, video and audio media messages. Facebook Messenger Instantly reach the people in your life — for free. Not just for Facebook friends. Send messages to people in your phone book and enter a phone number to add a new contact. Skype An old standby. Say hello to friends and family with an instant message, voice or video call on Skype for free. 12 cta.org

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