Abstract:

This case study examines how the ATLAS Network Pilot provides a safe online platform for student learning and extends academic experiences beyond the classroom. This environment hosts ePortfolios for student writing, and enhances collaborative learning, critical thinking, and the first year bonding experience in freshman writing workshops in Global Liberal Studies at New York University. This paper analyzes how this educational platform on the Sakai Open Academic Environment facilitates multimedia and textual analysis and synthesis, peer-to-peer learning, and the creation of professional academic identities among undergraduates. It also reflects upon the students’ and instructor’s experiences during the Fall 2011 semester pilot, and draws conclusions about the uses of educational software to enhance student learning and the undergraduate experience. The virtual presentation illustrates the capabilities of this rich environment.

Keywords:

ATLAS, writing.