A-Level Geography Decision-Making Exercises in a Virtual Learning Environment

This article examines a pilot project of collaborative group work and decision-making exercises (DMEs) in A-level geography within a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). The DME was developed specifically for this project and examines the issues surrounding aquaculture in Lough Swilly in County Donegal. The VLE allowed pupils from two geographically distant schools to have access to a range of content and communication tools. The pupils collaborated electronically within groups of four (two pupils from each school) over a period of twelve days to prepare a presentation about their decisions in relation to the case study. Levels of ICT skills, and of collaborative engagement with this DME, varied across the groups, but in both there was evidence that the process was valuable. Ways in which the project could be developed are suggested.