Cyber Book ClubsErica Trowbridge

Oakridge Public Schools

http://oakridgelmc.wikispaces.com/Book+Club

Objectives…

• Promote a love of reading• Inspire students to read for pleasure• Teach digital citizenship• Encourage students to think critically

about literature & practice reading strategies

• Build relationships with students• Create a “hub of student activity” within

the library

Why online?

• Takes the book conversation outside of the library.

• Makes it easy to include parents & teachers too.

• Helps improve retention, understanding, & application.

• Teaches value of respectful & supportive dialog.

What is Collaborize Classroom?

• A free, collaborative education platform that is password protected

• Highly focused on discussion– Structured conversations – Engages students long term

Why Collaborize Classroom?

• Multiple question types– Yes/no–Multiple choice– Vote/suggest– Forum

• Real results• Publishable participation reports• Ease of use for both facilitator &

participants

Book Club Strategies

• Read no more than one title a month• Include students in book selection• Use icebreakers to build relationships

& help comfort with online discussions• Group students by age level• Post discussion questions weekly• Organize face-to-face events to

compliment online discussions

Cyber Etiquette• Be open-minded• Use names• Compliment strong points• Responsible & supportive

communication• Ask questions• Critique content, don’t criticize

Bring Conversations into the Physical Library…

• Meet at the end of each month (or book) to discuss the book face-to-face

• Plan a fun activity related to the book• Do a community service project inspired by

the book• Skype with the author• Movie night• Create book trailers• Etc.

Getting Started…

• Advertise• Ask questions• Survey• Set up website• Sign students up

Advertise

Advertise

Sign Students Up!

Sign Students Up!

http://www.collaborizeclassroom.com/

Resources