Case Studies

All students have access to the Debating Chamber Room on Fronter, although some 'debates' are restricted to specific year groups.

In 2006 a series of online discussions, relating to sexualities in the classroom, were set up for KS4 students. PHSE staff advised on the topics to be covered and ensured that they were also dealt with in lesson time. The expectation was that stduents would access discussions out of school time, that contributions would be more considered and of a higher quality than face-to-face discussions, and that those students who did not contribute in class might make use of the online opportunity.

This is a screenshot from the Debating Chamber. Where areas are 'hidden' they can only be seen onscreen by staff. Student access to debates can be limited by time and date, by year group, class and individuals. The system produces data to show who is accessing what material and when they are doing this. Debates need to be moderated regularly. Examples of student input have been used as starters in lesson time. A full report on the sexualities debate is available from the Download area. A red flag attached to a message shows that it has not been accessed yet. Students can also set up their own discussion boards. The last discussion on filtering was set up by a student to discuss the school policy on access to websites.

From the icons on the left of the screen students can enter the room; a list of participants can be viewed; links to relevant websites can be set up in advance of discussions; and live online conferences can be used.

'the connectedness evident in childrens out of school use of technology is not matched by their use of digital technology in school.'(IMPACT)