When you need to debate, make sure it is well planned: developing communication strategies through online roleplay

This paper describes a case study of Deakin University Library’s role in creating an online roleplaying assessment in a first year unit of Environmental Sustainability. They are tasked with judging the quality and reliability of information, by participating in an activity reflecting real communication challenges in the sustainability field. Librarians and academics created an original assessment, using a uniquely developed online debating platform. The outcomes included improved student success and improved critical thinking. Based on a comparison of 2016 and 2017 unit success rates, this assessment was a successful collaboration between librarians and academics.