Online Learning Communities: Formal and Informal

The aim of this course is to critically analyse online learning communities in informal and formal digital environments, and to explore and evaluate the learning occurring in these settings, including the learning occurring in environments such as social media and MOOCs. The course will also explore some of the current theories underpinning these trends. Students will explore the different types of interactions typical of any learning leading to the development of learning communities whether in formal or informal settings. Students will critically examine and evaluate some key pedagogical online design principles that support the development of learning communities while investigating the opportunities for learning evidenced in MOOCS/Open courseware, social media and formal settings. Students will examine a range of the learning analytics tools offered in these settings that can be used to further support learners.