Title: Designing networked learning environments to support intercultural communication and collaboration in science learning

Authors: Marcelo Milrad, Marianne Bjorn, Michele H. Jackson

Addresses: Center for Learning and Knowledge Technologies (CeLeKT), School of Mathematics and Systems Engineering, Vaxjo University, SE- 35195, Vaxjo, Sweden. ' Center for Learning and Knowledge Technologies (CeLeKT), School of Mathematics and Systems Engineering, Vaxjo University, SE- 35195, Vaxjo, Sweden. ' Department of Communication, University of Colorado, 270 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309-0270, USA

Abstract: In this paper, we describe our efforts to foster intercultural communication and collaboration in educational scenarios using advanced learning technologies to support hands on experimentation and science learning. A special focus is given to the idea that innovative uses of these technologies will enhance the scientific experience of learners if intercultural exchange is involved in this process. Specific contributions include the creation of a number of applications to support collaboration between different learning communities, thus to provide ||cultural glue|| between different learning activities. These efforts are conducted within the framework of our European Union funded COLDEX (Collaborative Learning and Distributed Experimentation) project.

Keywords: science communication; science education; intercultural communication; collaboration; learning communities; distributed learning; knowledge networks; web-based communities; learning networks; distributed experimentation; collaborative learning; online learning.

DOI: 10.1504/IJWBC.2005.006929

International Journal of Web Based Communities, 2005 Vol.1 No.3, pp.308 - 319

Published online: 25 Apr 2005 *

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