Assisting Peer Learning Performance Using Online Collaborative Tools in Virtual Learning Environments

Abstract

Assisting peer learning performance through behaviour of teaching for learning is not a novel idea. In most learning environments, students have been supporting one another regardless of the involvement of their teachers. However, though the potential of peer learning has been realized, it is often introduced in unintentional way, without much consideration of their implications in different learning environments. In the virtual learning environment (VLE), especially, the application of peeragogy is imperative as the online knowledge is mainly generated through peer-to-peer learning and collaboration. Therefore, it is timely to explore how to embrace online collaborative tools in facilitating online peer learning. Three emerging online collaborative tools (workshop, wiki, and database) are discussed in this chapter with focus on the strategies and ideas to assist peer learning performance in VLEs. Checklist related to selecting the most effective collaborative tools according to the diverse pedagogical requirements is also provided.