2. Define a VLE A virtual learning environment (VLE) is a software system designed to support teaching and learning software http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Course_management_system

3. What are VLE offers Communication tools (e-mail, bulletin, chat rooms) Collaboration tools (on-line forums, file sharing, diaries) Content creation tools Assessment tools and activity tracking tools Integration into a MLE Controlled access to content

5. Virtual learning environment BlackboardBlackboard - a family of software WebCTWebCT - (Now a part of Blackboard) software applications designed to enhance teaching and learning FirstClassFirstClass - messaging and communications solution Desire2LearnDesire2Learn - Desire2Learn eLearning solutions. CyberExtensionCyberExtension - Virtual Managed Learning Environment It's LearningIt's Learning - Norwegian Closed Source System (written in ASP.NET) Fronter Saba Centra - Closed Source System offered by Saba SoftwareSaba Software WebTrainWebTrain - Virtual live classes, enrollment, attendance, attention monitoring.. Glow Learn- A VLE accessible through and designed for Glow, the National School Intranet of ScotlandGlow Frog - A VLE in the UK designed to help organise, communicate and to access information, designed by Frog Learning. UniServity cLc (connected learning communities) Learning Platform. UK based and used in 21 countries. Studywiz Learning Environment - A safe online space for schools to collect, organise and manage curriculum to support 21st century learning. eClasseClass - Hong Kong-based closed source system developed by BroadLearning Education Asia BroadLearning Education Asia Moodle Source: Wikipedia

6. Your VLE What is your experience? Plus points Minus points Interesting points

9. Web 2.0 Wikis RSS feeds Blogs Podcasting/videocasting Content aggregation Rating User generated content Social networking (community) 3D environments (second life) etc

10. The new kids on the block! www.blogger.com www.pbwiki.com www.jellycast.com www.ning.com www.typepad.com

11. http://www.blackboard.com/

13. Web 2.0 Wikis RSS feeds Blogs Content aggregation Rating User generated content (e.g. portfolios, videos) Social networking (community) etc

16. Try www.siteground.com

18. Web 2.0 Wikis RSS feeds Blogs Content aggregation Rating User generated content Social networking (community) etc

20. Technology to scale good practice?

23. Ning.com

26. Advice Try out the components which make a VLE Build a learning community Open access Interesting content (why should I revisit?) Ownership (hotseat e.g. NCSL)