Evaluation of research on the Knowledge Building pedagogy: A mixed methodological approach

Abstract

Knowledge Building (KB) is a theoretical framework that promotes collective inquiry through the resolution of knowledge problems that are relevant for certain educational community. There is an increasing number of authors looking into benefits of this approach, thus an overview of the trends of research is needed. The aim of this study is to provide the state of the art concerning the research production on Knowledge Building pedagogy including trends and relevant issues. In this study a sequential explanatory design was applied. Both quantitative (scientometric analysis) and qualitative (systematic review) approaches were applied. The sample was selected from the most recent productions published in journals indexed in the Web of Science database. The scientometric analysis shows a publishing dynamics typical of an up and coming research field. In the qualitative phase, analysis reveals research trends on Knowledge Building as well as the benefits of putting it into practice in a wide range of contexts, exposing that technology is a relevant component of learning based on the pedagogy. These benefits mainly regard to individuals' depth of thinking and collaboration skills within computer supported environments.