Net-based Learning in Higher Education

Abstract

This thesis is an exploration of net-based learning in higher education, building on non-traditional pedagogical ideas such as constructivistic learning, collaborative learning, problem based learning and formative assessment. The objective of this research is to improve the design of net-based learning activities, and the overall research question asked in the thesis is: How can the design of net-based learning activities in higher education be improved so that non-traditional approaches to learning can be successfully realized? The research approach has been action research. A mainly net-based introductory course in informatics was given for second year undergraduate business administration students at a Swedish university. The findings of the thesis are based on the experiences from that course. The thesis consists of five papers. There are three main results in this research. First, the Activity Visualization approach to improve social awareness in net-based learning environments. Second, Mandatory Participation as Examination, a model of examination for net-based learning. The third and overall result is the empirically based understanding of net-based learning, that offers a problematizing and critical analysis.