Fostering participation in learning networks by using reward systems and face-to-face meetings

Abstract

This paper investigates conditions for increasing participation in learning networks. ‘Lessons learned’ over a period of almost five years are phrased as recommendations for future learning network implementations. We describe three generations of facilities designed to promote learning of educational modelling languages, from a conventional website through a community site offering facilities for collaboration towards a learning network for the effective exchange of information. The paper focuses on the influence of incentive mechanisms and face-to-face meetings on participation in the LN4LD (Learning Network for Learning Design). These interventions are explained from Self-Organization and Social Exchange Theory. Repeated measurements show that the levels of both passive (accessing and reading information) and active participation (posting, replying and rating) are indeed significantly increased as a result of both interventions. Both the use of reward systems and face-to-face meetings can therefore be considered as valuable ‘add-ons’.