The document discusses virtual learning environments (VLEs) and their functions. A VLE is any electronic space where learning can occur via the internet. Examples include allowing file sharing, electronic communication through email and discussions, personal organization tools, acting as a school portal, and hosting e-learning content. The VLE used by St Ivo school is called DigitalBrain. It functions include file sharing, communication, organization, acting as a school portal, hosting content, and allowing teachers to set assignments and activities for students.

1. Also known as Personalised Learning Environments Virtual Learning Environments Further developing online resources…..

2. The DfES in their e-strategy document set the following target: A personalised learning space with the potential to support e-portfolios to be available to all schools by 2007-08. What is a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)? “ A virtual learning environment is any electronic space where learning can take place or where interactions occur.” Source: http://www.ukcle.ac.uk “ It is an environment that is accessed via the Internet for teaching, learning and communicating.” Source: http://www.kirklees-ednet.org.uk The VLE used at St Ivo is called DigitalBrain . www.geobytes.org.uk

3. Examples of VLEs…

4. Possible Functions of Digital Brain as a Virtual Learning Environment 3. File Sharing Each user has an online storage area – files can therefore be stored and shared. – e.g. students handing in work or staff making available resources from lessons. 1. Electronic Communication All digitalbrain users have an e-mail account. Threaded discussions can also be set up – to encourage debate. A live discussion ‘chat room’ facility is available with or without moderator . 2. Personal Organisation Each user has a series of personal organisational tools – include online contacts, personal calendar etc.. (and when part of a course – assignment deadlines etc. are automatically added. 4. School Portal The overall school portal gives the school a web presence – all staff and students can interact with portal logging in at home and in school and a network can easily be set up to link staff / students through departments / year groups pages. 5. E-Learning Content Content can be uploaded to Digital Brain as powerpoints, word documents, existing web pages etc.. Or staff and students can easily create their own web pages by simply adapting on line templates and adding content 6. Learning Manager – it is possible to combine exisiting resources to create on-line communities. Assignments can be set online with links to useful resources, deadlines, supporting files etc.. Students can submit completed work online – marks can be stored in personal online mark books etc.. www.geobytes.org.uk

5. An Example of an Online Learning Community: GOLC : Geography Online Learning Community Shared Calendar Work area / Stored Resources Discussions Access to Online Resources