Different Futures of Adaptive Collaborative Learning Support

Abstract

In this position paper we contrast a Dystopian view of the future of adaptive collaborative learning support (ACLS) with a Utopian scenario that - due to better-designed technology, grounded in research - avoids the pitfalls of the Dystopian version and paints a positive picture of the practice of computer-supported collaborative learning 25 years from now. We discuss research that we see as important in working towards a Utopian future in the next 25 years. In particular, we see a need to work towards a comprehensive instructional framework building on educational theory. This framework will allow us to provide nuanced and flexible (i.e. intelligent) ACLS to collaborative learners - the type of support we sketch in our Utopian scenario.