Why are online discussions important?
Improve your online discussions.
Information about free online collaborative tools-
View a long list of free tools!
What strategies aim to adapt to a variety of learning styles?
The Illinois Online Network provides a variety of strategies-
Course structure and community affect student satisfaction.
Tips for aligning activities with Gagne's Events.
Strategies determine technology tools.
Find out about PNC's instructional technology tools-

	Google docs is a free web-based tool that allows multiple users to share and edit a common file in real time or asynchronous.  It is an effective tool for facilitating group collaborative projects.  Students can also use Google Plus to meet virtually for group work and/or presentations.  All students need is a Google account.  Student guide for collaborating and meeting online Faculty Guide for Google Docs Faculty Guide- Host Online Meetings with Google Plus Video Tutorials
	Wikis are a free collaborative tool that anyone can use.  They are an effective way to have students collaborate in the online environment by creating and editing a common webpage, including adding images and hyperlinks to videos, articles, and websites. Video Demo (1:49)
	Blogs are an effective tool for increasing student cooperation, reflection, and collaboration in the online environment.  Best of all, they are free!  In the fall 2011 semester, Sara Kohn, a graduate student from Purdue Calumet created the following resources for PNC faculty and students: Step-by-step guide for FACULTY (PDF) Step-by-step guide for STUDENTS (PDF)
	Prezi is a free online presentation tool that allows you and/or your students to create interactive, animated, and engaging presentations.  They follow a "path" and allow zoom in and out capability. Video- Getting Started More Video Tutorials
	Second Life is a virtual world that is free to join.  Some of the educational opportunities it provides include: allowing classes to meet in the virtual world and participate in virtual field trips, give live presentations, network with students and professionals from around the world and much more. Video Tour of SL (7:00)   How could you use it? (Website)