Posted October 2009 Online Literature Festival 2009 a huge success!
		The power and versatility of online communication has been proven during this year's Online Literature Festival, run by the Learning Place. Learning Place manager Jim D'Castro said the popular event was enhanced in 2009 due to the use of iConnect, the department's new web conferencing tool - enabling live interactions between students and authors. Thousands of students participated in the four-week Online Literature Festival, which was supported by the Brisbane Writers' Festival and the State Library of Queensland.

Jackie French in a web conference session

'The web conference sessions were a highlight as they ensured the online interaction with more than 30 authors was live and 'real',' said Mr D'Castro.

'Being able to speak to the students enabled the authors to really convey the passion and enthusiasm they have for their work - the expression communicated through the author’s body language told a story of its own.'

Victoria Point State School teacher said her students gained a lot from partaking with a virtual real time discussion with author Jackie French.

'It was an absolute pleasure to be able to join Jackie's web conference.

'She did a great job in motivating our whole class to read your books and we look forward to many more great books from her in the future.'

The free festival boasted a total of 83 online activities including the Online Reader's Cup, text-based chats, blogs, web conference sessions and Book Raps for students aged Prep - Year 12.

Students and teachers can view recordings of the web conferences by visiting the Learning Place Online Literature Festival website.