1. Use earphones to reduce echo. If you have a headset with a microphone that is the best, but any earphones will do. It really improves the quality of your call.
2. If you have a web cam use it. Your partners will enjoy the sight of your pretty face, and seeing facial expressions is really helpful when communicating in a new language.
3. Be patient with your partners during your first couple of attempts to connect. It might take a couple of minutes for them to get their microphone and camera up and running if it is their first time using the site. Kick back and relax for a few.
4. How fast is your internet connection? If you can't stream a YouTube video consider setting yourself to only available for text chat (Edit Profile --> Don't have camera, Don't have microphone).
5. Make sure you have the latest version of Adobe Flash. It can be downloaded (FREE) here: Adobe Flash
1. Know what you want to say before you start your conversation. Take a few minutes to think about what you want to say and practice it in your head. Look up words that you don't know, but will need to know for your conversation. Write down a few notes or a quick outline to help you stay focused on what you wanted to say.
2. Make sure that you are speaking slowly and clearly so that it is easy for your partners to understand you. If you are having trouble understanding your partner ask him/her to speak slower.
3. Use text chat to clarify anything that is unclear, and to teach each other new words and phrases.
4. Be patient! As you are probably very aware it can be difficult to communicate in a new language. Listen to your partners carefully, and help them when they need help. If they are speaking slowly let them finish their thought before you correct them.
5. Don't correct grammar all the time. The goal of these conversation exchanges is for you and your partner to make yourselves understood in your new language. Only correct your partner when they ask to be, or if they make a mistake that would prevent them from being understood. When you finish your conversation leave feedback for your partners telling them what they should work on.
