The way forward

So.... where to now. Technology changes are bringing the Internet and online learning into the classroom so how do we cater to the needs of those at the bottom of the learning ladder. I think the answer to that is we introduce it slowly at the first opportunity we can. Online tools such as BlackBoard can be utilised as a resource the students access for information, resources and tutorials and a teacher/lecturer can ease the students into its use as papers progress through their cycle of introduction to assessment. A typical scenario could be where students have to retrieve files from a location such as BlackBoard in the classroom under the direction of the teacher. Once there is familiarity with this process then the students could be encouraged to use revision material thats stored in a similar location but to access it outside normal class time. Any problems could then be taken to the teacher for assistance with resolving. As the students become more and more familiar with using online tools they will gain in confidence and perhaps eventually even be ready for facilitation in an online community.....