Social learning in formal education through peer collaborative networks and activitiesresearch results and hazards

Resumo

Learning Management Systems (LMSs) and Learning Networks (LNs) are particularly suitable for lifelong learners as these systems are online social networks designed to support formal as well as non- formal learning. Lifelong learners want to learn what they need, when they need it and at a place and pace that suits them. However, formal education is geared by fixed installments and assessment. These two approaches can be met by relaxing the deadlines for the first, and adjusting them for the second. Thus, we could combine the heterogeneous background of non-formal learners with those that need to meet the demands of traditional curriculum-based formal education. In both cases, the learner needs to be put central. Moreover, learners in an LN and in an LMS need to rely on learning through and with others, by sharing knowledge. That this is a feasible option is shown by the positive effects of collaborative learning and peer tutoring in formal education, as well as the by the interest in social learning in the digital era. However, these systems must necessarily provide learner with support services. In this paper, we argue why social learning and peer support are relevant to learners in digital Learning Systems.