Enhancing social interaction and spreading tutor responsibilities in bottom-up organized learning networks

Abstract

self-directed learners, who themselves decide on their learning program as well as on the timing, pace and place of their studies. Such learners may easily become isolated, which is detrimental to their studies. Supporting them is difficult and, if done properly, may rapidly lead to staff overload. This paper discusses ad hoc, transient communities as a means of tackling both problems. It is argued that such communities are well suited to enhance the sociability of a Learning Network and increase learning effectiveness.A Learning Network is an ensemble of individual users, institutions and learning resources which are mutually connected through and supported by information and communication technologies. Learning Networks are particularly attractive to