The latest event was based on "From Page to Screen," the National Year of Reading theme for November 2008, and provided an ideal opportunity to explore how learning through technology could enhance, motivate and challenge more able students. Videonations, a valued LifeSize partner, was chosen by Essex Schools to assist in the technology and logistical aspects associated with the event.
The use of video communications technology was interwoven with teaching in order to develop leadership skills through problem solving, team working, time management, multi-tasking and organization. The event modeled best practice in Assessment for Learning as students reviewed their own progress, were invited to identify the success criteria and given direction to improve as a result of the feedback they received via video conferencing. Students were also encouraged to operate the video conferencing equipment themselves, taking part in presentations, plenary sessions and giving and receiving feedback with the other participating school teams.
Donia Stick, Secondary National Strategy ICT consultant in Essex says, "Events like these stand out as key learning experiences because students are stimulated by their new found independence, the fun environment and by being able to utilize applications they are familiar with such as video, blogs and email. It's a taste of the challenges they'll face in their future work life."
"The LifeSize video communications equipment was used in the planning, development and execution of the events," Stick continued. "Videonations' technical support team was on hand setting up and remotely monitoring the virtual meeting rooms; and they very kindly loaned us additional systems to enable ten schools to participate rather than the usual six."
Adam Feakins, Videonations Classvision team member adds, "We chose to install LifeSize® Team MP™ systems because of their performance, value and suitability to the education market."
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