Title: Combining Web 2.0 technology and problem-based learning in a blended learning environment

Authors: Abelardo Pardo, Carlos Delgado Kloos

Addresses: Department of Telematic Engineering, Carlos III University of Madrid, Av. Universidad, 30, E 28911 Leganes, Madrid, Spain. ' Department of Telematic Engineering, Carlos III University of Madrid, Av. Universidad, 30, E 28911 Leganes, Madrid, Spain

Abstract: The evolution seen on the Web during the last few years has put the users in the center of the interaction. A similar tendency is perceived in education, thus making the combination of Web 2.0 technology and learning a natural setting. But, simply deploying Web 2.0 tools in a learning environment is no guarantee of success. In this document, the deployment of these tools in a course based on problem-based learning is explained. The course required intense interaction between a group of students and tutors collectively solving five different problems. A Learning Management System enhanced with Web 2.0 tools was used to host all the interaction. The results were extremely positive. Students used the tools to extend the interaction between the face-to-face meetings and a rich set of documents were collectively created.

Keywords: e-learning; learning management systems; LMS; Learn Research Network; .LRN; open source; web 2.0; problem-based learning; blended learning; electronic learning; online learning.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCEELL.2009.025029

International Journal of Continuing Engineering Education and Life-Long Learning, 2009 Vol.19 No.2/3, pp.222 - 231

Published online: 10 May 2009 *

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