The role of Web-based learning environments in fostering collaboration

Abstract

Web-based learning environments are increasingly used to support lecture and seminar activities in blended learning courses and there is growing evidence to suggest a positive relationship between peer-to-peer learning activities and academic attainment. The role of web-based learning environments that are used as a learning-support tool is considered where the blended learning system goals of social interaction and personal agency within the context of web-based discussion boards are of particular interest. Using web-based learning community discussions as a case study we illustrate the role of personal agency and social interaction and how personalisation of the learning experience may be supported by the teachers. Our results are intended to inform teachers and the design of automated instructional agents, that will need to support personal agency and social interaction, to facilitate online student collaboration within the blended learning system context. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2007.