VLE integration - approaching meaningful use of virtual learning environments

current success of a module Student experience is perfect Grades are excellent Teaching experience is enjoyable Student experience is dreadful Grades are poor Teaching experience is painful For the vast majority of modules, there is scope to look at where carefully developed, structured online materials and activities can supplement, complement or even substitute face-to-face teaching What about the really good and the really bad? 'If it ain't broke, don't fix it' Key question: How to differentiate between the good and the average? Key question: What are the module's biggest problems? 'VLE is the least of my worries' Possible VLE use: develop activities or resources to resolve one or more of these problems Take up of the VLE in the middle of the scale ranges from a single, relatively minor activity to an integrated approach throughout the whole module VLE usage at the extremities often comes around after a rethink of the module curriculum, and may lead to a thoroughly blended module where a significant, often credit bearing, amount of work is carried out through the VLE How a VLE becomes integrated? In either case, a good place to start is to consider the existing module aims and whether the module in its current form enables those aims to be met by the tutor and students Taking things forward... Don't be afraid to try something out, but also don't use something for the sake of it Every activity or resource should add value to the learning experience You are competing against student expectations of face-to-face teaching. Non face-to-face must bring something meaningful and of value to the students' learning experience VLE adoption Virtual Learning Environment Consider methods that have worked for others - talk to colleagues Always consider: Does the inclusion of VLE resources and activities enable the module aims to be met? A common prompt for module covenors to start to consider the role of a VLE as part of their teaching is when they evaluate the Prezi by Matt Cornock This was a short and by no means exhaustive exploration of some of the considerations that tutors may have when looking at using online, VLE-based learning materials as part of their modules. Most institutions now have a dedicated group of people who can assist with the strategic and practical aspects of VLE adoption within Departments and on individual modules. Get to know your VLE team, as they will be able to advise you further on the effective use of online resources and activities. Thoughts about Yes! No! How so? How has this changed the learning process for students? What have you as a tutor learnt from this? Is your use of the VLE meaningful to the learning process? Is it perceived to be of value to the students? How can your use of the VLE improve? Maybe? Use of a VLE is not always necessary or appropriate. If you question your motives for using the VLE, then it may be that for your module, extra activities and resources don't fit in with the module structure or learning process. VLE advisors can guide you through this process Possible VLE use: stretch the strong students with optional activities © 2010 Matt Cornock, Web and VLE Coordinator, SPSW, University of York. mc193@york.ac.uk