Does e-learning lead to social isolation?

07-August-2006

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[ e-Portfolios , e-learning in Small and Medium Enterprises ]
Empirical research suggest a major barrier to e-learning is a perception by learners that the use of new technologies can lead to social isolation

I am hard at work editing a book on e-learning in SMEs. The book is based on a wealth of empirical research. The research shows it is hard to generalise - attitudes to e-learning vary greatly between SMEs in different sectors and with different forms of work organisation.

One surprising finding - which seems to run across countries, sectors and organisations, is a fear that e-learning results in social isolation. I wonder how grounded such a perception is in reality. I also wonder if it is based on fear of lack of teacher support, or fear of lack of peer group interaction.

I am always wary of reading to much into such findings. But so common is this finding that it has to be taken seriously. And is it yet more evidence that the LMS / VLE model of e-learningis inappropriate - at least for adults and work based learning.

Social networking and e-portfolio type applications such as ELGG may be far more suitable for these learners. But, of course, the perception that the use of ICT for learning will leave learners socially isolated still has to be overcome.

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Graham Attwell; 07-August-2006 13:27:15; forum (1) help

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