The first online session - catching up!

As I have not contributed much on this blog yet, I thought I would update us on the Blackboard Collaborate (BC) Classroom session (from my perspective) held on Wed last. It was a bit of a disappointing turnup as more said they would be available at that time on the Doodle, however, I think those that did turn up found it quite informative.

I think the intro to BC went pretty well. Maybe I could have let them play a bit more with the tools to help them become more familiar with them. Could also have introduced some games, ice-breakers etc and will do that definitely next session as this will help them to learn some facilitation skills. Next time, we might do a poll and try out the breakout rooms. Because not everyone was there, we will probably have to go through it all again but that's not a bad idea as it will consolidate their learning. As Christine suggested, giving each of them a turn to moderate something small at these sessions will be a great way for them to gain confidence in using it.

The overview of blogging and intro to blogger helped them understand why we wanted them to reflect on their learning journey. Some good questions and answers here I thought. I will back this up by putting some useful blogging links into the wiki. By giving them a look at the ning was my way of encouraging them to join - nobody has yet, however, after the individual sessions perhaps they might take the plunge. I think I advertised it enough - overdid it probably!!

It is great to have two eChamps - Christine and Claire's input was invaluable and even though you did not have much success with your audio Claire, you gave some very pertinent comments in the chat window. I appreciate both your efforts very much. I will send out another Doodle tomorrow to work out a set time for the rest of the fortnightly BC sessions so we can get a timetable up and running. My question is - are the eChamps and eMentors running state-wide training sessions this time and if so, when, who and what? I will put that question into the Moodle. This will impact on what we do in our sessions and our timetable.

For my own orgs - Claire has taken over Orana as Glen Park dropped out and now we have 4 each. I am not sure whether Mulgrave are still going to be participating. I really think they should as they have a big demographic of ESL and they would really benefit from some audio eLearning. I will be seeing them next week and will sort it through then. I have been to see Outer Easter Literacy Program in Boronia. They want to set a a wiki website that has a closed tutors section and students' section. The eLeader Sue has a very clear vision of where she wants it to go and after doing the Reality Check with her and working out a plan of attack, I think it has an excellent chance of getting up and running at least by the end of the year so should have something to report on at Converge. I have an appointment set up for next week with Japarra and Rowville closed for the holidays so will contact them next week as well. All in all, looking good to get some projects under way very soon.