Exploring Web 2.0 to support online learning communities: where technology meets pedagogy

Much has been said and written about ‘Web 2.0’ as outlined by Tim O’Reilly in 2005. Indeed, in the few years since then, the development of Web-based tools for communicating, creating and sharing has been nothing short of phenomenal. Government agendas provide strong support for the use of ICT tools in all sectors of education, but in practice this is not a straightforward proposition. In such a fast-paced environment, how are educators to deal with curriculum requirements, institutional and professional accreditation standards and, last but not least, ever changing student perceptions and expectations? In this workshop we would like to explore, together with colleagues, some of the benefits and issues related to the use of Web 2.0 tools for collaborative learning. Drawing upon our own experience in online teaching and learning, we propose a hands-on, practical session in which to explore opportunities and challenges related to incorporating Web 2.0 tools in our teaching practices. Questions to be addressed include: 1. Which Web 2.0 tools can be of value for online learning groups and communities? 2. What are the benefits of the different Web 2.0 tools for collaborative learning? 3. What issues arise, and how can problems be addressed? 4. What is emerging as good practice in the educational use of Web 2.0 tools?