An Integrated Model to Enhance Virtual Learning Environments with Current Social Networking Perspective

Abstract

A Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is an accumulation of incorporated soft-ware components, empowering the administration of web-based learning (online learning, e-learning). The quality of VLE is indispensable for the accomplishment of e-learning goals and responsible to engage students during web based learning. The attributes of existing VLES does not completely meet with the requirements of today’s e-learning. Consequently, decreases students’ interest, participation and engagement with web-based e-learning. In contrast, the learners’ engagement and participation are higher in social networking sites (SNS). For this reason, many researchers believe that the inclusion of features, similar to SNSs, in VLE may in-crease its effectivity. The goal of this research article is to investigate existing e-learning platform and make a room for SNSs and online tools for e-learning. The paper proposes an integrated model to enhance existing e-learning environment by incorporating the strength of SNSs and other potential tools with VLEs. This re-search article will provide a good direction and new thoughts for the researchers of technology supported learning-domain.