文章基本信息

标题：Challenges of Effective Collaboration in a Virtual Learning Environment among Undergraduate Students
本地全文：下载
作者：Russell Butson ; Carla Thomson
期刊名称：Creative Education
印刷版ISSN：2151-4755
电子版ISSN：2151-4771
出版年度：1449
卷号：05
期号：16
页码：1449-1459
DOI：10.4236/ce.2014.516162
语种：English
出版社：Scientific Research Publishing
摘要：Web-based technology has influenced the way we perceive and use computer devices. One effect of the increasing variety of online web services has been a move away from “personal” computing toward networked or “social” computing. In this paper we discussed a research project which explored the potential in using a purpose-built social-networked environment to support learning in undergraduate education. In particular, we were interested in which tools would be adopted and the collaborative manner which would be used. A prototype web-based networked environment was built that allowed each student a personal space with their profile, access to resources and a group-project work space. The network incorporated a people-centric paradigm that integrated networking across a range of collaborative tools to support course activities. The system embraced an “open” philosophy where all students and staff were linked to all members and work- group areas. Each work-group area consisted of a number of web-based tools that included a group wiki, group blog, file repository, weblink tool, discussion area, and calendar. The site allowed for both synchronized and asynchronized communication via messaging and chat facilities. The results showed that students did not work collaboratively and struggled to use the web-based tools to advance their learning. Further investigation revealed that students preferred individual offline approaches to the more demanding processes required in a collaborative online environment.
关键词：Virtual Learning Environments; Collaboration; eLearning; Higher Education