Resource-Based Learning

Abstract

The nature of information has changed dramatically during the past 25 years. The digital age has redefined the nature of a resource and dramatically changed how resources are used to support learning. Media of often unknown origin and quality are now used across a wide range of learning systems to address diverse epistemological beliefs and associated learning goals. The number and types of resources have also grown exponentially. Several factors increase the viability of resources for learning, including access to resources in contexts not previously available, increased flexibility in their use, and ready availability, manipulability, and sharability. The purposes of this chapter are to present a brief historical perspective on resource-based learning; describe components of resource-based learning; introduce the influence of underlying epistemology, foundations, and assumptions in grounding resource use; critically analyze related research; and identify implications for RBL.