Formal VLC model

Non-formal environments

?
 Research Questions
• Are characteristics identified in formal virtual
learning communities found in a non-formal
online learning environment, and do unique
characteristics emerge?
• How does the context and structure of the
course influence self-directed learning
undertaken by participants?
 Non-formal Learning
Environments

Non-formal
Formal Informal

Fits somewhere between formal and informal

environments; often contains elements of both.
 Non-formal Learning
Environments
Intentional
Voluntary
Structured
Expectations that arise from structure
A degree of learner control is present
 Context
Year-long course on teaching in higher ed
for new professors
10 participants
Blended environment
Bi-weekly F2F group sessions
Online community site
 Data
Transcripts of discussion threads and blog
entries
Focus group session – recorded
semi-structured interviews with participants
 Codes
From the original VLC model
Ideas identified in previous research on
similar contexts (learning processes)
Emergent codes identified during analysis
 Data Analysis
•Transcript Analysis Tool (TAT)
Density
Intensity
Reciprocity
•Model coding & free coding
•Frequencies and themes
Findings

It’s dead, Jim

 Findings
• Mostly empty, with
a couple of exceptions
 Findings
High frequency codes:

•Concept awareness – awareness of how a

particular activity or piece of knowledge fits into
an individual’s existing knowledge.

• Engagement – confronting or exploring ideas or

resources first presented by someone else in the
group.
 Findings
Zero frequency codes:

•Historicity – references to the history and/or

culture of the community.

• Trajectory – the sense that the community is

moving in a direction, typically towards the
future, or growth, or toward resolution of a goal.
 But Why??

Participants were highly talkative and engaged

during F2F sessions. Why was the online
environment such a flop?
But Why??

Time:
• professors are busy people
• other priorities come first, and there
is little time left for online works
But Why??

Expectations:
• Participants often feel to
expected to produce
carefully composed
postings
But Why??

Perception:
• Unfamiliarity breeds contempt
• Optional = low priority
 For more information about
Virtual Learning Communities
and updates on further research,
please visit:
http://www.vlcresearch.ca