1. Virtual Learning Environment Tania Rodriguez

2. What is a VLE? Web-based environment for learning that was originally created for distance learning to facilitate computerized learning or e-learning and to manage content through the use of Web 2.o tools Has a variety of other names, such as, Learning Management System (LMS) and Content Management System (CMS)

3. VLE tools Teacher & Peer Assessment Communication Uploading content Return of students’ work Collecting and organizing student grades Questionnaires Creating & Administrating student groups Tracking tools

4. New features of VLE Wikis Blogs RSS feed 3D virtual learning spaces

5. VLE Possibilities Share knowledge learned in the classroom via Web 2.0 tools 2-way interaction (with classmates or globally with native speakers) via Skype Virtual Field Trips Written and Oral Assessment

6. UDL Principles & VLE’s 1.Representation Information is presented in a different format 2. Action and Expression Students collaborate together to share what they have learned (higher order thinking) and are active participants in the learning process. 3.Engagement Students are connected and engaged in authentic learning

7. VLE’s Potential Student Impact Increase retention levels Decrease failure rate Increase performance

8. VLE’s Potential (cont…) Teacher Impact Increase student and parent communication Decrease time managing courses Increase academic rigor

9. Examples of VLE’s Apex Learning SharePointLMS Moodle

10. Resources Virtual learning environment. (2011). Retrieved from (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_learning_environment - List_of_some_virtual_learning_environments)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_learning_environment - List_of_some_virtual_learning_environments Universal Design. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.udlcenter.org/aboutudl/udlguidelines