The Virtual-Workspace
The Virtual-Workspace is a dynamic web-based learning environment designed to engage learners aged 14-19 (Years 10 to 13), in and out of school/college. The aim is to raise attainment at all levels through helping them to become confident, independent and motivated learners.
In the Virtual-Workspace, learners and teachers each get their own private, 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 - e.g. online messaging, chatrooms and forums - which are familiar to learners and often better suited to their needs.
What are the key features?
- A mentoring service, which includes live communication with human mentors from 8am to 8pm on weekdays
- Over 4,500 learning materials supporting the 14-19 curriculum
- A range of communication channels, including messaging, discussion forums and chat rooms
- Online assignment management and storage of work and interest materials
- Learning Communities, encouraging collaboration between learners and teachers, across schools/colleges
- An incentive scheme for learners, offering real rewards
- A Continuous Professional Development programme for teachers and support staff to help integrate the Virtual-Workspace into all aspects of teaching and learning
What makes the Virtual-Workspace different from other VLEs?
- This is a managed service, not just an 'off-the-shelf' product. The Learning Mentors monitor and moderate the Site, 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 V-W staff made possible by the communication and feedback channels on 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 offered by the Virtual-Workspace Training Team addresses this issue and helps staff to make effective use of the Site in their teaching.
Click here to see a demo of Virtual-Workspace
Click here to contact us about Virtual-Workspace
Click here to watch the Virtual-Workspace video
