How to Talk to People Online

Online chatting has become more popular than snail mail.

Technological innovation has changed the way people communicate with each other. The number of people communicating through snail mail has drastically diminished as instant messaging and chatting has emerged as one of the top means of communication on the internet. Some of the most popular programs include Skype, AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), and Chatroulette. Skype is a helpful application that uses webcams to communicate, AIM uses instant messaging, and Chatroulette is a webcam website that connects complete strangers all over the world.

Instructions

How To Use AIM

1. Go to aim.com and press "Download AIM." Click "Save File" after the pop up appears. Save this file to your desktop. Double click the "Install_AIM.exe" file once the download is complete. This process should be automatic for PCs. If you would like to open this file on a MAC, you must have the Stuffit Expander application, which opens executable files.

2. Follow installation steps. During this process, you will be asked to provide an original screen name and password. The screen name will serve as your login name as well as the name people will use to search for you. Complete the installation.

3. Select "Start" on the bottom left-hand corner of your screen. Highlight "All Programs."

4. Press "AIM" and choose "AIM." The program should appear. Type in your screen name and password in the appropriate fields and then press "Sign In."

5. Go to "Menu" on the top of the window and click on "New IM."

6. Type in another person's screen name and tap the "Enter" key on your keyboard.

7. Chat with the other person by typing desired text in the text box on the bottom on the instant message screen. Tap the "Enter" key on your keyboard to send. Repeat process for each response.

8. Select the camcorder icon on the top left-hand side of the window if you would like to start a video chat session.

How To Use Chatroulette

1. Go to chatroulette.com.

2. Turn your webcam on.

3. Press "Play." You will be paired with a complete stranger and you will be able to see him or her via webcam. They will be able to see you as well.

4. Type in the text field on the bottom of the screen to chat. Tap the "Enter" key on your keyboard.

5. Click "Next" if you would like to chat with another person.

How To Use Skype

1. Press "Download" on the top left-hand corner of the website. Select "Save File" after the pop up appears. Save this file to your desktop.

2. Double click on the "Skypesetup.exe" file. Follow installation instructions. Like AIM, you will be asked to provide a user name and password. This user name will be used for people to search for you. Complete the installation.

3. Click "Start." Press "All Programs" and then "Skype." Type in your user name and password in the appropriate fields and then select "Sign In."

4. Make sure your webcam is on. Type in another person's user name on the search bar on the left-hand side of the screen. Tap the "Enter" key on your keyboard.

5. Double click his name and click the green button labeled "Video Call." Once connected, you will be able to see him via webcam. To chat with him, type in the text field on the bottom of the screen and then tap "Enter."

Tips & Warnings

• Although Chatroulette primarily sparks new friendships and connects people with similar interests, cases of indecent exposure have been reported. This program is not recommended for children and should be blocked by parents. The good news is that if you do end up chatting with someone that is being inappropriate, you can press "Next" to automatically move on to another person.

Resources

• AIM
• Skype
• Chatroulette
• Kioskea.net: StuffIt Expander