Communicating Across The Atlantic: US And British Students Discuss Criminal Justice Issues

E-learning in Context

Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishment toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.

Developing a Digital CommunityInformation and Communication

Technologies (ICTs) have a key role in the future of education and access to computers may be a major force for educational development, life long learning and collaborative learning.

Development of communication skills is vital for social cohesion and inclusion.

How it works

Students follow their own distinct courses but the e-communication project is their common experience

Each two weeks a different

discussion topic

Two response

s required

per person

per week

WebCT

Small discussion groups working on three two-week blocks. A tailor made WebCT site providing space for discussions and a repository of supporting materials, self-tests and other relevant material including a FAQ list.

Who is involved?Manchester Metropolitan UniversityUniversity of West FloridaUniversity of BrightonWestminster UniversityUniversity of North Carolina WilmingtonCalifornia State University FresnoGlasgow Caledonian University

Students Gain….Access to a wider pool of academics with differing interestsGreater confidence in interpreting and understanding contemporary policy and popular concerns around crimeAn international dimension Enhanced independent learning skills Enthusiastic engagement Real life experience in articulating their knowledge

Students Expectations“I was very excited about the project as this was something different and sounded as though it would be a very enjoyable experience.”

“I was really excited about speaking to new and different people, especially those from another country.”

“I thought it would be a good way to improve my skills on the computer.”

“In reflection, even though computer literate and eager to learn more about crime, there were feelings of apprehension.”

Does it work?In the previous projects students said…

“this was the most difficult and also the most rewarding experience of my university career”

“a great opportunity to broaden my horizons”

“I thought it would be easy – it wasn’t – but I loved it”

“made me question my own views on things”

About 8 times as difficult as an essay but I’m also 8 times as confident

Breaking Boundaries

Nelson Mandela “what struck me so forcefully was how small the planet had become … [ICT] had shrunk the world, and had in the process become a weapon for eradicating ignorance and promoting democracy” (A Long Walk To Freedom).