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

Kristin Den Exter, Stephen Rowe, William Boyd and David Lloyd
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Kristin Den Exter: Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, East Lismore NSW 2480, Australia
Stephen Rowe: Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, East Lismore NSW 2480, Australia
William Boyd: Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, East Lismore NSW 2480, Australia
David Lloyd: Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, East Lismore NSW 2480, Australia

Future Internet, 2012, vol. 4, issue 1, 1-22

Abstract: 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.

Keywords: Web 2.0; asynchronous tools; synchronous tools; collaborative learning; distance education; Web 2.0 community of inquiry; conceptual model; blogs; wikis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O3 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2012
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