Fostering knowledge and building communities (KBC) through Computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL)

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Research and Development in Higher Education Vol. 26: Learning for an Unknown Future

July, 2003, 692 pages
Published by
Helen Mathews and Rod McKay
ISBN
0 90 8557 55 8
Abstract 

In this paper we highlight an innovative instructional approach, the Knowledge Building Community (KBC), supported by Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) technology for in-service teacher training at the National Institute of Education, Singapore. Six teachers attending an in-service course entitled ‘Visualising students’ thinking using IT tools’ participated in this study. The teachers viewed the incorporation of KBC and CSCL technology as opportunities for students to learn beyond the classroom and the curriculum, and for providing a means for them to monitor their students’ progress. They also perceived KBC to be a means for promoting student inquiry. However, the teachers thought that they might not have sufficient time to implement the KBC approach. They also seemed to regard KBC as being more suitable for high-ability students. From the results, we discuss some issues with regard to the fostering of KBC for professional development, with specific reference to teacher training.

Keywords: computer-supported collaborative learning; knowledge building community; teacher training.