WALT: Weblogs as Learning Tools

Abstract: Traditional e-learning platforms have many shortcomings. It has been suggested that Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) may actually impede learning. Weblogs are a new tool that can provide a means for students to reflect on their learning, and for students to easily collaborate with their teachers and with one another. This research aims to determine whether weblogs can provide effective support for learning in an online environment. A pilot study was conducted with a group of second-year Networking & Communications students over a 10-week period. Data was collected both from the weblogs used by the students, and from a questionnaire administered at the end of the study