1. Arthur Winzenried

2. Dropout & Retention – eg. Pithers & Twyford 2000 suggest 30% - 68%, CSU >7% Self-efficacy – I am finally working INTERact out (quote, slide 4) – through to instructions for others as per chat in slide 6 - chat. Communication – nb. Chat use, slide 6 - chat Support – multiple avenues, readily available Technophobia - conquering the fear of the internet, the remoteness and the technology used to bridge that distance. Collaboration has value – Tapscott & Williams 2006; Rollett 2007; Poellhuber et.al. 2008, c/f Shirky 2008 Here comes everybody.

7. I had no experience of chat-rooms, had never heard of a wiki and knew that MSN was something that my teenage daughter seemed to be obsessed with during study time.... I therefore had reservations about my abilities with technology and whether I was capable of surviving the steep learning curve...Once I had a grasp of how to use these digital devices, I also became aware of what a powerful communication tool they can be. The subsequent conversations I engaged in combined with my professional reading also enlightened me to the importance of developing clear, effective communication skills. (student, male 2008)

8. The expression steep learning curve appeared in 72% of student reflections. All but three expressed some initial concern at the levels of technology expected by the subject and its assessments. Similarly powerful communication tool was a phrase used in 51% of the reflections as part of the students summing up of their activities.