The programmes we are using for our online conferences can all be downloaded from the World Wide Web.

Below are the names of the programmes, links to their home pages and to the download site and some instructions:

1. ICQ. This is a programme which tells you when people you know are on the Internet. It is important for our online conferences as it helps us meet up with each other.

ICQ is a text based programme which allows you to send messages and chat with other people. It also enables you to invite other people to chat with you using voice or video.

To download ICQ click on the link below and follow the instructions they give there. There are versions for PCs and Macs.

The following programmes will require you to have a sound card and a microphone attached to your computer. If you have a sound card you should be able to just plug a microphone into it. Microphones can be bought for about £5 (British) or $10 (US)

2. HoneyQ. This is another windows 95 or 98 programme which allows voice and video conferencing over the internet for people who use ICQ. The demo version gives you a free trial for 30 days. On the demo version for the first 10 calls you can talk for an unlimited time. Thereafter each call is limited to 10 minutes. A licence for HoneyQ costs $19.95 US or in Britian £6.99 for a voice only licence or £12.99 for a voice and video licence.