Welcome to elearn open

This web site has been created to support my Master of Education by Research studies. I am using an educational design-based research approach to explore how online learning could be improved to provide more interactive and engaging student centered learning experiences for higher education students. My research focuses on creating and evaluating open online learning spaces based on authentic learning pedagogies where students use technology as cognitive tools to learn and articulate their knowledge and skills.

Research Issue

Lack of time, online pedagogical competency and technical skills has caused many teachers to simply dump large tracts of information into online courses. This information delivery model has led to student boredom and isolation, resulting in high dropout rates and pleas for richer and more engaging learning experiences (Kim & Bonk, 2006, p. 22; Reeves, Herrington, & Oliver, 2002).

Research Question

How can authentic learning strategies supported by new technologies and open access to the vast array of educational materials available on the Internet be implemented within a learning management system (LMS) to provide effective online learning experiences for higher education students?

Research Aim

The research findings will endeavour to inform theory and offer a new perspective to the field of education for developing effective online learning environments across the university sector.

References

Kim, K.-J., & Bonk, C. J. (2006). The future of online teaching and learning in higher education: The survey says... EDUCAUSE Quarterly Magazine, 29(4), 22-30.

Reeves, T. C., Herrington, J., & Oliver, R. (2002). Authentic activities and online learning. Paper presented at the Research and Development in Higher Education: Quality Conversations: 25th HERDSA Annual Conference, Perth, Western Australia. http://www.herdsa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/conference/2002/papers/Reeves.pdf