View this slideshow- Collaborating Online: Understanding the Importance of Social and Peer-Based Learning to set the stage for the activities in this lesson.

2. Explore more about the need for social learning.

3. Identify how teens are using internet technologies and for what purposes.

You absolutely must get acquainted with the Pew Internet Reports! They are a fascinating look into how the internet is changing our lives. The reports delve deeply into teen usage and trends. They will help you understand what tools and technologies are commonly used by your students, and how you can tap into that knowledge to promote better learning. Sign up for email notification of new Pew Reports...keep in touch with emergent trends, stay knowledgeable! Simply visit http://www.pewinternet.org and subscribe to newsletter alerts.

Learning Activity:

1. Go to http://www.pewinternet.org/, type the word "teens" in the search box. Choose one report to skim and report findings on how teens are using internet technologies in today's world.
2. In the Library of Best Practice discussion forum, share one idea from the report than you can capitalize on in order to create a "culture of collaboration" and prepare students for learning.  Cite the URL of the report, one sentence that overviews the main topic of the report, and a statistic or finding that stood out to you as important information.  What ideas do you have for capitalizing on that information to more effectively facilitate learning?

4. Identify techniques for establishing norms for collaboration in your classroom.

Netiquette is the term used for etiquette on the Internet. This term extends to email, chat, discussion boards and live sessions. As an online teacher, it is important to educate yourself and your students about using good manners on the internet. Just as in a classroom setting, teachers must define the rules on the first day of class and enforce them throughout the school year. For this task you will take a look at Netiquette rules, your online school policy, and reflect on your classroom expectations to create a classroom expectations policy for your online learners. Learn more about the language of the internet here.

Learning Activity:

1. Locate, read, and understand your school's policy dealing with Netiquette.
2. Briefly describe your schools Netiquette policy. Is the policy appropriate and adequate based on your experience and on what you have learned here? Could you make any suggestions for improvement? How will you incorporate this policy into your personal class expectations?
3. Post your reflections to the Netiquette discussion forum.
4. Review the postings of your classmates and respond to at least two of these. What did you learn from reading their work? Do you have any suggestions to help them incorporate Netiquette policy into their class?

5. Continue to apply your new understanding:

Student Case Study

Reflect back on the material in this lesson. What ideas have you gained about preparing your students for learning, establishing a climate and culture of collaboration, and establishing norms? How can this information inform the work you do with your students?

Learning Activity:

1. Add your reflection to your portfolio.