Networked Learning and CSCL

Dr Christopher Jones, Reader in the Institute of Educational Technology, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes MK7 6AA. UK. [email protected]

Networked Learning is a recognised research area with its own series of international conferences and publications in the ijCSCL and CSCL book series. The workshop is related to the Kaleidoscope European Research Team Conditions for Productive Learning in Networked Learning Environments . The workshop takes the definition that networked learning is:

learning in which information and communication technology (C&IT) is used to promote connections: between one learner and other learners, between learners and tutors; between a learning community and its learning resources (Goodyear et al. 2004 p1).

This definition is the starting point to explore five theoretical strands that contribute to networked learning. These include:

• Theories of network society and networked individualism (Castells and Wellman)
• Theories of networked learning (Goodyear et al; Hodgson and McConnell)
• Theories of networks related to mathematics (Barabasi)
• Social Network Analysis (Wellman, Freeman)
• Actor Network Theory (Callon and Latour)

The half-day workshop will consist of brief presentations and facilitated workshop activities in small groups. The emphasis will be on dialogue and exchange during the workshop and pre-readings will be made available prior to the event.

The workshop will be accompanied by an online element that will include a repository of written materials and a discussion area available prior to the workshop and remaining open for two weeks following the workshop.

Please email the organiser at the time of registration.

Please register as soon as possible for the workshop but before April 30 through the CSCL conference site.