http://hdl.handle.net/2149/2908 Search the Channel search http://auspace.athabascau.ca/simple-search http://hdl.handle.net/2149/2934 Title: Using 3D Virtual Worlds: Engaging AU Learners & Providing Social Support <br/> <br/>Authors: Annand, Dr. David; Schwede, Gunnar; Husch, Gabriela; Koole, Marguerite <br/> <br/>Abstract: Demonstrating how an avatar-based 3-D learning environment can more fully engage AU learners in their online educational experience Dr. David Annand, Gunnar Schwede, Gabriela Husch and Marguerite Koole will showcase a prototype of a virtual AU campus developed in Second Life. This immersive experience promises to make AU services more readily accessible, facilitate formal collaboration within a self-paced learning environment, and provide an improved means to develop informal support networks among online students. The volunteer team of developers from the Centres for Distance Ed., Psychology, Commerce & Admin Studies, and Ed. Media Development, Public Affairs, and the Office of the VP Academic look forward to discussion and audience feedback. http://hdl.handle.net/2149/2933 Title: PLAR Practice in Canada AU's Role in Building a National Framework <br/> <br/>Authors: Conrad, Dr. Dianne; Myers, Dr. Doug <br/> <br/>Abstract: Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) is a process designed to award credits towards a degree or certificate at AU and to open other doors to advancement. Although AU is the acknowledged post secondary practitioner of PLAR in Canada, other types of PLAR applications serve a varied clientele across the country. In an effort to recognize and perhaps establish national standards or some consistent understanding of this complex process, work is underway to build a national PLAR framework. Dr. Dianne Conrad, Director, Centre for Learning Accreditation, & Dr. Doug Myers, Executive Director, PLA Centre in Halifax, who is leading this initiative, will present and discuss the state of PLAR across the country. http://hdl.handle.net/2149/2932 Title: Synchronous Online Drop-in Tutorials in Distance Delivered Chemistry Courses <br/> <br/>Authors: Shaw, Dr. Lawton <br/> <br/>Abstract: Over a 12-week period, via synchronous online technology, students taking chemistry courses at AU were able to receive one-on-one tutorial support that included the use of a whiteboard and interaction with their classmates. For two hour sessions, three nights per week, students logged on to Illuminate and took turns asking questions and interacting with the tutor, in many ways resembling a traditional classroom. Dr. Lawton Shaw, Asst. Professor, Chemistry, Centre for Science, will describe a project piloted in 2006 utilizing this new mode of distance delivery for Science tutorials. Discussion will include participant demographics and feedback. Audience comments are welcome. http://hdl.handle.net/2149/2931 Title: Meta4hand Innovations: Software Enabling True Mobility <br/> <br/>Authors: Wong, Frank; Moschuk, Ray <br/> <br/>Abstract: Meta4hand, an embedded software development company, has been tackling ubiquitous computing problems in mobile wireless space from a unique perspective. Frank Wong, President, and Ray Moschuk, CEO, will discuss how their proprietary SynapBridgj (tm) software and ONR-Badj (tm) technology allow data files (color images, complex plans, drawings) received on a Smartphone to be opened, viewed and manipulated in real time on any external display (microviewer, personal projector, jumbotron). Product presentation demonstrates how to turn a Smartphone into a mobile desktop virtually anywhere in the world!