The Virtual Office: Connecting Students Together across Classes and Disciplines Mary K. Laska, Ph.D. Kaplan University Department of Social Sciences

Why care about connectedness? Learning is social Students who feel connected are more satisfied with their learning experiences Getting to know others is important to students

How is this different? Most research focuses on the classroom The Office takes the interaction out of the classroom Interaction Getting to know each other Resources for learning

The virtual office 38 members 75 pictures 7 forum posts

The invitation I am trying something a little new this term. I wanted to find a place where students from all my classes could pop their heads in and see what I am up to during the day. You can ask questions about upcoming homework, comment on discussion boards, or just hang out and bug me while I work ;o) just like a real Sociology professor's office. Let's try this out and see how it works.. The network should be set up so that it cannot be viewed from people who have not been invited. Those of you working on IT degrees might be able to tell me if I set it up right ;o). So come on by and check it out..

Activities Pick a song for the announcement Sociology scavenger hunt Learning quizzes Know your perspectives The Wall A candy bowl

Conclusion The Office is a work in progress Contact outside of the classroom Questions?? Suggestions??