We obtained student accounts for the students at MCC and CGCC and assigned student numbers. The students were to write to their counterpart at the other college based on the assigned student number, i.e., student #1 from CGCC wrote to student #1 from MCC. In this way, students established a "pen pal." Students used technology to write to their "pen pals" and discuss their major, how computers apply to their major, and how this course is helping them in their major studies.
After the students had been communicating for a while through electronic messaging, they were introduced using VCN so they could see each other, which got them curious about other subjects. Students kept telling us how much fun they were having just getting to know each other through this medium. The technology enhanced their ability to communicate and become better acquainted, straying off onto many other topics than those assigned.
We will be refining our strategies further this semester. We plan to incorporate more structured collaborative techniques into the distance learning environment. We have formed collaborative groups on each campus. Within each group an assignment is given to research computer crime. Each group will use electronic mail to input what their findings were. Once on the bulletin board, all students are expected to read both PRO and CON ideas and formulate 2 questions PRO and 2 questions CON based upon the electronic postings prior to the VCN debate.
Within each of the groups on each campus a group spokesperson will be elected. Each spokesperson, once on VCN, will respond either PRO or CON to the issue "did the punishment fit the crime?" Which campus has the PRO side and which has the CON side will be decided by the flip of a coin. At the end of the debate, the onlookers will be able to ask the questions, having the PRO and CON panels respond.
Once the debate is over, each individual is responsible for writing an opinion piece. The groups then come together and use electronic mail to discuss their opinions and what they feel the directions should be based upon the debate and issues presented.
Our hope is to raise consciousness as to ways computers are properly and improperly used in our society, while also teaching them about the ethics and laws which focuses on information processing.