--- Forwarded Message from "Cobb-Zygadlo, Deanne" <[log in to unmask]> --- >From: "Cobb-Zygadlo, Deanne" <[log in to unmask]> >Date: Thu, 20 Jan 2011 08:20:19 -0500 >Subject: virtual computing labs >To: Language Learning and Technology International Information Forum <[log in to unmask]> Good morning, I am looking for information on the evaluation of virtual computing labs particularly for the study of languages. Our college is currently testing virtual computer labs with the idea of potentially dissolving standard computing labs in favor of virtual labs that students may access on their own computers. Not having the opportunity to test the option myself, I do want to be proactive and ask the relevant "tough questions" of IT because while I have heard good things about virtual labs, I also have my own concerns about whether they are viable in a language lab setting (as opposed to a standard computer lab). I should note, that we do not have a turn-key lab, but do make heavy use of our LMS, Wimba, and other on-line resources. We do use language software (e.g., Atajo, Systeme-D), however, and are hoping to expand these offerings, not diminish them. Does anyone on the list have experience with virtual computer labs having been deployed on their campus? Can you provide me with some of the concerns or issues that needed to be addressed? What are the limitations of virtual labs for the language lab environment? And in your estimate, did the benefits outweigh the limitations? I would also be interested in knowing how the deployment of virtual labs impacted your Center in terms of both how your facility was outfitted, and the services that you provided. Did you find a diminishment of your priority on campus, or did it increase the demand, but focus it on other concerns (e.g., troubleshooting, language assistance, media viewing, etc.) Thank you very much in advance. Regards, Deanne Cobb-Zygadlo ------------------------------------------------------------- Deanne Cobb-Zygadlo Director, Language Resource Center Kutztown University of Pennsylvania phone: 484-646-5865 email: [log in to unmask] Twitter: https://twitter.com/KU_LRC __________________________________ NOTICE: This message is intended only for the use of the addressee, and may contain information that is private, confidential or otherwise restricted from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, any distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you received this message in error please notify KU immediately by contacting [log in to unmask] *********************************************** LLTI is a service of IALLT, the International Association for Language Learning Technology (http://iallt.org/), and The Consortium for Language Teaching and Learning (http://www.languageconsortium.org/). Join IALLT at http://iallt.org. Subscribe, unsubscribe, search the archives at http://listserv.dartmouth.edu/scripts/wa.exe?A0=LLTI Anthony Helm, LLTI-Editor ([log in to unmask]) ***********************************************