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Virtual Language Lab Project Description
Target
To enable language learning through same level 3 language laboratory
functions of communication and utilization of digital learning materials
to students using LAN and Internet connections as they have in a language
classroom.
Project Phases
Phase 1. Course and model planning, material preparation, software development
Fall 2000
- Setting of the learning objectives for pilot course activities. The
courses involved will have emphasis on self study.
- The material to support reaching the learning objectives is defined,
selected and produced. This means selecting, producing and/or preparing
material for digital distance usage, categorizing and possibly enhancing
with tool specific (Divace, Partner Tools, etc.) added value.
- The learning materials are prepared according to different access
levels in terms of network connections, from 56 kbit/s modem to DSL
line and up to Tl connection.
- The materials will be placed and organized using Teleste LibraryPilot
database system.
- Phase 2. Distance learning with point-to-point communications with
teacher-on-line
Pilot software to CSU by Jan 31st
Two trials, in February and in May
Teacher is equipped with functionality to:
- assign asynchronous activities to students for self access
- assign synchronous activities ( media launch ) to students joining
a virtual classroom session.
- address groups of students with oral instructions ( all call/group
call )
- address individual students with two-way oral communications ( intercom
)
- set students to communicate in pairs
- communications include video if possible
Students are equipped with functionality to:
- join and leave a virtual lab session
- browse the course material on Virtual Lab database during and outside
virtual lab sessions
- download and receive learning material as files and streams of media
from the Virtual Lab database; streams will be used if applicable third
party media streaming solutions e.g. RealNetworks RealServer are available
- make a teacher call to request communication with teacher
- communicate with teacher ( intercom )
- communicate with another student when addressed by the teacher ( pair
discussion, 2 in a pair )
- upload audio work files into Virtual Lab Server
Server:
- Web server applications running on top of a LibraryPilot database
for material download and upload, as well as for storing own Divace
work files for student folders.
- Material server(s) containing media as files and streams (RealServer,
Win2000 VOD server, e.g.)
- Communication Servers as NetMeeting Server.
- 3 Online Distance learning in groups
Fall 2001
- Enhanced communications:
- Video is incorporated in Intercom , All Call and Group Call
- Teacher to define virtual groups for oral communication ( group conference
)
- Teacher can collect student work files ( test response collection
)
- Students can be set to speak to groups ( model student )
- Teacher can transfer audio from analog sources ( program transfer:
cassette e.g. )
- Application sharing (whiteboard, e.g.)
Feasibility of further development of teacher control , e.g. group control,
will be discussed and studied.
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