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Title:
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BRAIDED LEARNING: DEVELOPMENTS IN AN ONLINE COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE |
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Author(s):
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Christina Preston , John Cuthell |
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ISBN:
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978-972-8924-48-5 |
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Editors:
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Kinshuk, Demetrios G. Sampson, J. Michael Spector and Pedro Isaías |
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Year:
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2007 |
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Edition:
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Single |
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Keywords:
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Community of Practice, Online Courses, Action Research, Practice-Based Research, Learning Theory, Teaching Practice. |
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Type:
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Full Paper |
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First Page:
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79 |
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Last Page:
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84 |
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Language:
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English |
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Cover:
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Full Contents:
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click to dowload 
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Paper Abstract:
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This paper explores Braided Learning, an emergent theory of learning observed in the online communication within a
mature professional community of practice (CoP) (Wenger 1992, 2002, 2004). The focus of the study is the online
practice of the international MirandaNet Fellowship, established in 1992. Evidence of the Wenger approach to learning in
the history of MirandaNet is contrasted and compared with the linear 5 step-model that Salmon developed in tutoring
online courses at the Open University (2000, 2002). In the paper, an example of a multi-authored text from the
Mirandalink, the internal listserv, is investigated to provide evidence of new kinds of collaborative learning. One key skill
that is found amongst members is the e-facilitation of collaborative learning. The conclusions indicate that over time
online engagement can provide professionals with a thriving community. A sixth step in professional learning is revealed
when the CoP members reinterpreted jointly owned online texts for use in influencing local, national and international
agendas. |
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