Using Web 2.0 Technologies for Collaborative Learning in Distance Education—Case Studies from an Australian University

Future Internet

Kristin den Exter¹  Stephen Rowe²  William Boyd² 

[1] Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, East Lismore NSW 2480, Australia;

关键词: Web 2.0;    asynchronous tools;    synchronous tools;    collaborative learning;    distance education;    Web 2.0 community of inquiry;    conceptual model;    blogs;    wikis;   

DOI  :  10.3390/fi4010216

来源: mdpi

【 摘 要 】

This paper explores the use of Web 2.0 technologies for collaborative learning in a higher education context. A review of the literature exploring the strengths and weaknesses of Web 2.0 technology is presented, and a conceptual model of a Web 2.0 community of inquiry is introduced. Two Australian case studies are described, with an ex-poste evaluation of the use of Web 2.0 tools. Conclusions are drawn as to the potential for the use of Web 2.0 tools for collaborative e-learning in higher education. In particular, design and integration of Web 2.0 tools should be closely related to curriculum intent and pedagogical requirements, care must be taken to provide clear guidance on both expected student activity and learning expectations, and there is a clear need to develop, support and encourage strong interaction both between teachers and students, and amongst the students themselves.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© 2012 by the authors; licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.