I am going to try to get a number of my students onto video conferencing this year. I have set up a project based learning course, and am linking in with the University. I plan to link groupos of students with 'mentors'. People that can provide real world experience, so kids can start to think outside the square.
We have invested in 2 Conference units, and I want to make them a stepping stone, or a window to the other side. I see a number of other useful benifits, but I really want to tie it into Student Achievement primarily, and student achievement that is directly measurable.
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Sounds like a great start John. It will be very interesting to hear how your project progresses.
Linking students directly with the real world in their project provides them with a very authentic learning experience and can be very motivating! I have recently been into Albany Senior High School to film their Impact Project. While they aren't video conferencing they have connected many of their students with mentors via the internet and it has been hugely beneficial for the students. So far one of the clips is now up on Enabling e-Learning, but there are more to come.
We will publicise this through Enabling e-Learning round-up and Twitter feed for you, John:-) Cheers - Karen
Hi John
As a GCSN member have you considered joining the GCSN group here in the VLN.
The group can be found at /pg/groups/52617/greater-christchurch-schools-network-gcsn/