Saturday, March 22, 2014

Steps to Create a Virtual Learning Space

Anna Taylor
Buerkett, R. (2014). Where to Start? CREATING VIRTUAL LIBRARY SPACES. Knowledge Quest42(4), E23-E27.

We now know having a virtual space within the library is a key component in communication, information, and collaboration. But what is the best way to get one up an rolling? Rebecca Buerkett, an elementary school librarian in New York, has provided 6 Steps to make this dream a reality.

STEP 1: Choose a Virtual Platform
Will you be using your school's existing platform? It may be easier since you do not have to create one from scratch. Just make sure the website is able to handle web enhancements like Widgets.
If you choose your own, make sure it is included within the school's website.

STEP 2: Decide What Resources to Include
Take a look at other school virtual learning commons and find what works and what doesn't.
What learning platforms are you going to include? Edmodo? Dropbox? A blog?
Create an appealing look and easy access to important links and pages.
Add Widgets like Facebook, Twitter, and GoodReads.

STEP 3: ASSESS
Get a survey around and ask for feedback from students and teachers. Encourage feedback through incentives- for both groups!

STEP 4: Tweak Constantly
Update to mobile capability. Add and delete information as needed. Decide if pages and widgets are being used and replace them with tools that will. Test the whole website to make sure all links and widgets are properly functioning.

STEP 5: Jump In!
Get students involved through tweaking, collaboration, and upkeep. 
Remember: this is a tool for technology and is always a work in progress.

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