Virtual learning environment: Difference between revisions

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== Definition ==
== Definition ==


* A virtual learning environment is a [[virtual environment]] that supports learning by supporting learning activities plus "social presence".
* A virtual learning environment (VLE) is a [[virtual environment]] that supports learning by supporting learning activities plus "social presence".


Here is a picture that shows key elements of a virtual learning environment that supports project-based learning:
Here is a picture that shows key elements of a virtual learning environment that supports project-based learning:
[[image:virtual_environment_activity_community.png]]
[[image:virtual_environment_activity_community.png]]


=== Alternative view ===
* A virtual learning environment is any sort of environment that supports teaching and/or learning with [[Computer-mediated communication]], e.g. a [[LMS]], a [[C3MS]], a Website + [[Forum]].
[[User:DSchneider|Schneider]], the initial author of this article doesn't like this definition...
== Typical architecture of a VLE ==
Here is definition from Dillenbourg, Schneider & Synteta (1993)
* A virtual learning environment is a designed information space.
* A virtual learning environment is a social space: educational interactions occur in the environment, turning spaces into places.
* The virtual space is explicitly represented: the representation of this information/social space can vary from text to 3D immersive worlds.
* Students are not only active, but also actors: they co-construct the virtual space.
* Virtual learning environments are not restricted to distance education: they also enrich classroom activities.
* Virtual learning environments integrate heterogeneous technologies and multiple pedagogical approaches.
* Most virtual environments overlap with physical environments.


== Learning within a community ==
== Learning within a community ==
"Virtual learning environments" can be a tool for [[collaborative learning]].


* members of a community tend to make better progress (peer intellectual & emotional help and mutual stimulation)
* members of a community tend to make better progress (peer intellectual & emotional help and mutual stimulation)
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* a lot of learning is informal
* a lot of learning is informal
* good communities are knowledge management awarey
* good communities are knowledge management awarey
=== Alternative view ===
* A virtual learning environment is any sort of environment that supports teaching and/or learning with [[Computer-mediated communication]], e.g. a [[LMS]], a [[C3MS]], a Website + [[Forum]].
[[User:DSchneider|Schneider]], the initial author of this article doesn't like this definition...

Revision as of 17:45, 2 March 2006

Definition

  • A virtual learning environment (VLE) is a virtual environment that supports learning by supporting learning activities plus "social presence".

Here is a picture that shows key elements of a virtual learning environment that supports project-based learning: File:Virtual environment activity community.png

Alternative view

Schneider, the initial author of this article doesn't like this definition...

Typical architecture of a VLE

Here is definition from Dillenbourg, Schneider & Synteta (1993)

  • A virtual learning environment is a designed information space.
  • A virtual learning environment is a social space: educational interactions occur in the environment, turning spaces into places.
  • The virtual space is explicitly represented: the representation of this information/social space can vary from text to 3D immersive worlds.
  • Students are not only active, but also actors: they co-construct the virtual space.
  • Virtual learning environments are not restricted to distance education: they also enrich classroom activities.
  • Virtual learning environments integrate heterogeneous technologies and multiple pedagogical approaches.
  • Most virtual environments overlap with physical environments.

Learning within a community

"Virtual learning environments" can be a tool for collaborative learning.

  • members of a community tend to make better progress (peer intellectual & emotional help and mutual stimulation)

some goals can\u2019t be reached alone (distributed cognition) a group can develop special language and practice adapted to specific problems

  • knowledge through enculturation (collective memory)
  • cognition is tied to experience (grounded)
  • communities can extend beyond formal groups of learners
  • a lot of learning is informal
  • good communities are knowledge management awarey