The 5 stage model (shown below) helps to scaffold children’s learning. It is used in classrooms to successfully carry out e-Activities.

The first stage of the model is ‘Access and Motivation’.  In order for the e-learning activity to work it requires pupils. To obtain these pupils, pupils must be motivated. For example, if I was going to create a blog for my class, the internal motivation for pupils is the ability to work together to share information about a particular topic.

The second stage and third stage of the model would be children working together across the world to send and share information about their topic. This could be in the form of video, web links or commenting on each other’s work. Children could also provide challenges and quizzes for pupils online. This relates back to stage 1 ‘Access and Motivation’ as children will be motivated by the ability to communicate, challenge and quiz pupils from around the world. To ensure children are always motivated teachers should provide different interesting scenarios or topics to blog about.

The fourth stage of the model is ‘Information exchange’. This is where the blogs can be used by pupils in class to share and send information about a particular topic. During this part of the model, it is essential pupils are provided with time to comment and discuss their findings. This again relates to the first part of the model ‘Access and Motivation’ as children are motivated by being able to share and discuss information they have found out.

The final stage of the model requires children to develop their ideas. For instance with blogging, children would expand their idea by linking it to things they may have witnessed or seen.

In conclusion, both parties’ teacher and pupils are essential in smoothly using the 5-stage model to successfully run an e-learning platform. It is important that teachers create a e-learning platform which is not only motivating and engaging, but, supports the learning of all pupils.