I went to a very interesting session on using wikis (and other online elements of teaching, learning assessment) this morning, followed by another on Second Life.

In both cases there seemed to be real enthusiasm from the staff members about the software they're using, which certainly helps when getting students involved in something new.  I also heard comments from said staff along the lines of 'not being tech savvy'... but then I've long felt that you become comfortable with what you use regularly, one person's savvy doesn't stretch too far if they're asked to try something new and I certainly learnt a lot.

The use of wikis is commonplace as a source of information, if by 'use' we mean looking for information and where 'wikis' = Wikipedia.  Actually using them in the constructive manner outlined today, mixing media and seeing some very attractive results from online collaboration must be very rewarding for the students.  They're combining academic work, with all the usual rigour, with the development of new skills.  Good to see and no wonder the module gets good feedback.

The use of Second Life seems to be declining in mainstream applications, but I can see that it is a very relevant environment when utilised in an academic cause.  The subject matter at the heart of today's presentation is sensitive, yet by transporting the students into Second Life they are encouraged to think about it in different ways, hopefully engaging with it more.  Questions relating to the security of data in this externally-hosted site are important to bear in mind, but this is another area where there is already considerable expertise within the university.

Both presentations were exercises in applying relevant technology to a specific module.  There may well have been a steep learning curve for students in both cases, but the rewards are impressive.