GROUP TOPIC DISCUSSION 1: 28TH AUGUST 2001

ONLINE DISCUSSIONS

1. PRACTICAL WORKSHOP
Topic: The ITET program: Is it working?

The ITET Fellows will log on to the EdTec website chat room from their own terminals (either in their offices or in the ITET centre). The discussion will begin with 30 minutes of asynchronous postings followed by synchronous discussion. Each Fellow will be asked to post at least one substantial contribution in the first 30 minutes and contribute to the chat room discussion.

At the end of the hour, all ITET Fellows will walk back to the Goodsell building.

2. REFLECTIVE SESSION
After the Practical Session there will be a 45 minute reflective discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of online discussions experienced during the Practical Workshop. This will be a time in which the interests of specific discipline areas can be exchanged.

3. Tea break

4. RESOURCES
The literature concerning the history, pedagogy and technical issues related to online discussions will be briefly reviewed.

5. REAL WORLD EXAMPLE
Bill will lead a group discussion of an authentic learning experience in which the group will use discussion techniques .

6. FUTURE ISSUES IN ONLINE DISCUSSIONS
A group discussion synthesising the information presented during the workshop and developing new ideas for future online discussions.

7. REVIEW / ASSESSMENT
Michelle will briefly discuss the importance of review and assessment in staff development. A review document will be circulated.