A Preliminary Investigation Of Self-directed Learning Activities

Formal VLC model

Non-formal environments

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Research Questions • Are characteristics identified in formal virtual learning communities found in a non-formal online learning environment, and do unique characteristics emerge? • How does the context and structure of the course influence self-directed learning undertaken by participants?

Non-formal Learning Environments Non-formal Formal

Informal

Fits somewhere between formal and informal environments; often contains elements of both.

Non-formal Learning Environments Intentional Voluntary Structured Expectations that arise from structure A degree of learner control is present

Context Year-long course on teaching in higher ed for new professors 10 participants Blended environment Bi-weekly F2F group sessions Online community site

Data Transcripts of discussion threads and blog entries Focus group session – recorded semi-structured interviews with participants

Codes From the original VLC model Ideas identified in previous research on similar contexts (learning processes) Emergent codes identified during analysis

Data Analysis •Transcript Analysis Tool (TAT) Density Intensity Reciprocity •Model coding & free coding •Frequencies and themes

Findings

It’s dead, Jim

Findings •

Mostly empty, with a couple of exception

Findings High frequency codes: •Concept awareness – awareness of how a particular activity or piece of knowledge fits into an individual’s existing knowledge. • Engagement – confronting or exploring ideas or resources first presented by someone else in the

Findings Zero frequency codes: •Historicity – references to the history and/or culture of the community. • Trajectory – the sense that the community is moving in a direction, typically towards the future, or growth, or toward resolution of a goal.

But Why?? Participants were highly talkative and engaged during F2F sessions. Why was the online environment such a flop?

But Why??

Time: • professors are busy people • other priorities come first, and ther is little time left for online works

But Why?? Expectations: • Participants often feel to expected to produce carefully composed postings

But Why??

Perception: • Unfamiliarity breeds contemp • Optional = low priority

For more information about Virtual Learning Communities and updates on further research, please visit:

http://www.vlcresearch.c a