PerspectivesX: A collaborative multi-perspective elaboration learning tool

Abstract

There currently exists a lack of scaffolded collaborative activities within MOOC’s. In this paper, we introduce the PerspectivesX tool which has been designed to scaffold multi-perspective collaborative learning activities within MOOCs. The PerspectivesX tool is able to promote learner knowledge construction and curation for a range of multi-perspective elaboration techniques (e.g., SWOT analysis, Six Thinking Hats and activities with custom dimensions). The tool serves as a searchable knowledge base, is able to persist collective intelligence across course re-runs and clusters similar student responses together. In this paper, we illustrate that a good theoretical background already exists to support the design of CSCL tools and that via the LTI specification, feature-rich collaborative tools can be embedded within multiple courses. An evaluation of MOOC platform extension frameworks is presented to substantiate the implementation of the tool using the LTI standard. Key design principles, tool features, and proposed embedded analytics are also discussed.