Learning 2.0: Personal Learning Environments

We really delved into the learning aspects of Web 2.0 tools this week. I was particularly interested in the concept of personal learning environments (PLEs). According to Dabbagh and Kitsantas (2012), PLEs are built on Web 2.0 tools and empower students to take charge of their own learning. The PLE movement is a sharp contrast to traditional learning pedagogy where faculty control and direct learning activities. PLEs provide an opportunity to merge both formal and informal learning into a classroom setting.

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 Incorporating PLEs into higher education is not as simple as click social media and go; there must be a focus on empowering students to define and create their learning space. Dabbagh and Kitsantas (2012) provide a framework to help faculty engage students in a cycle of PLEs to promote self-learning. This framework includes three different levels. Level 1 involves instructors encouraging students to use social media. Level 2 involves collaboration and sharing, where social and collaborative activities allow students to exercise self-monitoring. Level 3 involves a combination of both Levels 1 and 2 and includes a synthesis of the information shared and self reflection. This framework provides a means for which faculty can intentionally promote both formal and informal learning, which can truly impact how Web 2.0 tools are used in educational settings in the future.

Debbaugh, N., & Kitsantis, A. (2012). Personal learning environments, social media, and self-regulating learning: A natural formula for connecting formal and informal learning. Internet and Higher Education, 15, 3-8.

Models For Designing Your Personal Learning Environment