Introduction
The Virtual-Workspace is a dynamic web-based learning environment designed to engage learners, in and out of school/college. The aim is to raise attainment at all levels by motivating students to become confident and independent online learners.
In the Virtual-Workspace, learners and teachers each have their own private and secure web space, which they can access anytime from any internet-enabled computer. Not only does this help to extend the learning day, but it also provides means of communication (eg online messaging, chatrooms and discussion forums), which are familiar to learners and encourage their engagement with the service.
What makes the Virtual-Workspace different from other virtual learning environments (VLEs)?
- This is a managed service, not just an ‘off-the-shelf’ product. Our online Learning Mentors monitor and moderate the Site, which is backed by an Acceptable Use Policy, an Online Behaviour Policy and an approved Child Protection Policy - thereby providing a safe, closed online community.
- Our fully trained Learning Mentors are unique to the Virtual-Workspace and provide new ways of engaging learners; they support, guide and advise learners through all aspects of their educational experience
- The Virtual-Workspace continues to evolve over time, with users helping to shape future developments; there are ongoing interactions between users and Virtual-Workspace staff, made possible by the communication and feedback channels in the site.
- The Virtual-Workspace recognises that the successful implementation of a VLE in schools/colleges requires the effective training of staff. The CPD programme, designed and delivered by our Training Team, addresses this issue and helps staff to get the best use out of the Virtual-Workspace.
What is the key benefit?
- Staff and students feel supported in the Virtual-Workspace ; online helpguides and friendly online staff are available to all users to help them feel comfortable and safe with their online learning and teaching.
What are the key features?
- A mentoring service, which includes live communication with human mentors from 8am to 8pm on weekdays
- An extensive bank of over 4,500 interactive learning materials supporting all major areas of the curriculum
- A range of communication channels, including messaging, discussion forums and chatrooms
- Online assignment management and storage of work and interest materials
- Online communities, encouraging collaboration between learners and teachers across schools/colleges
- An incentive scheme for learners, offering real rewards
- A Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme for teachers and support staff to help them integrate the Virtual-Workspace effectively into their teaching
For more detailed information on the Virtual-Workspace, visit Key features or download our brochure (PDF: 354KB).
Site statistics
November 2005 at a glance...
- 21,621 registered users (learners and educators)
- 263,974 logins - that's an average of 12 logins per user!
- 198,428 accesses to the learning communities
- 733,268 messages sent
- 7,345 learning mentor interactions
