Virtual Learning Environments

Quite a recent development for schools, the managed and virtual learning environment is a new way for teachers, staff and students to share work, lesson plans and other relevant information over the internet. However, the usage of the systems varies massively depending upon the institution and the staff working there, if staff members are reluctant to use the system, there is very little chance of the system being used effectively within the school environment.The following video describes the VLE much better than I can...

Due to the current position of many of us here at Middlesex University, we are unable to access the systems that are used in schools, however, at Middlesex University, we are able to access our own one, which is operated by Blackboard Learning (and WebCT), which we know as MyUniHub. The following demonstration shows how it is possible to use the available resources that have been placed upon MyUniHub as a student. It is important to understand here, that whilst all VLEs are different, their main function remains exactly the same, and that is to support the learning of the students that use the facility.

Step One – Logging In:

In order to use the virtual learning environment, the user must have an ID Number/User ID and a password. This will enable the user to access all the features and resources that have been made available to them by their teachers/lecturers, the personal areas will remain locked away until a username and password have been entered.

Step Two – Finding the Resources:

Once logged into the required area, you will come up to a screen, which may be similar to the following, outlining the different subjects that you are taking, or points of study that are being followed. Selecting one of these will guide you into that subject area, and towards any resources, tasks or work required for that subject. For an example here, we will look inside the folder for Primary Mathematics.

Step Three – Opening the Resources:

Once you have selected the subject, and filed through the different folders representing different areas of study, (in the Mathematics area here, you need to go through some different screens before the main area appears). You will be able to access the course content, which in this case, holds resources, help for assignments and other useful things. Clicking these will open the resource.

The Virtual Learning Environment, when used properly, can massively enhance the learning of the students, and make it possible to access their learning outside of the confines of the school building.
                                   

MyUniHub into the teaching at Middlesex caused huge confusion, especially amongst new students, myself being one.

Martin Weller, in a book directly concerning the formation and use of these virtual learning environments, claims that despite initial worries and concerns, mainly around the operation of the systems and training, that people do grow to appreciate their use. The main point that he wishes to get across is 'Don't Panic', because it will become easier and more manageable over time.

Overall though, the virtual learning environment, if used properly, can be a wonderful tool for the development of learning in and outside of the classroom.  It does take a while to get used to the software, yes, but once this obstacle has been overcome, they can be brilliant tools to use.

Until next week,

Keep Calm and Eat Cake! (yes there is a new one of these every week...)

Alex

Martin Weller, Virtual Learning Environments: Using, Choosing and Developing your VLE (2007)