How can ICT contribute to better learning in group work?Aleksandra LazarevaPhD research fellowFaculty of Social Sciences
2
Today’s lecture
• Collaborative learning• Computer-supported collaborative learning
(CSCL)• Benefits of CSCL• Challenges in CSCL• Technological tools to support collaborative
learning• Choice of tools to support a collaborative task
3
Collaborative learning
• Collaborative learning vs. “traditional” teaching and learning• Traditional classroom: a teacher passes the
information over to students; little opportunity for active participation in knowledge construction and practicing skills
• Collaborative learning: students discuss complex issues and phenomena; learners are active in knowledge construction
• The teacher’s role: guide, facilitator
4
Computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL)
• Co-located collaborative learning scenarios• Computer-mediated scenarios
5
Benefits of CSCL
• Active and social: participants express opinions, explain viewpoints and argue to reach the best solution
• Application of the learning materials on real-life examples
• Multiple perspectives due to different backgrounds (e.g., disciplinary or cultural)
• Online courses are flexible and accessible to more students
• Collaborative learning (face-to-face and online) is a good preparation for the real work situations
6
Challenges in CSCL
• Motivational challenges• Coordination
7
Technological tools to support CSCL
• The tools should promote and support collaboration• Word document + email vs. Wikis vs. Google
docs• A large variety of tools supports virtual
collaboration• Including a lot of the tools you use on the daily
basis: Skype, Google Drive, Dropbox, Evernote, Wordpress, Facebook…
8
Choice of tools to support a collaborative task
• Synchronous discussions• Skype• Google Hangouts• AdobeConnect
9
Choice of tools to support a collaborative task
• Collaborative writing• Google docs• Evernote• Etherpad• Typewrite
10
Choice of tools to support a collaborative task
• Presentation & video• Prezi• WeVideo
11
Choice of tools to support a collaborative task
• Concept maps & brainstorming• Mindmeister• Popplet• Stormboard
12
Choice of tools to support a collaborative task
• File repository• Dropbox• Google Drive• Learning management systems
13
Choice of tools to support a collaborative task
• Multifunctional tools• Google Drive• AdobeConnect• Learning management systems• Basecamp
14
Thank you!