Transatlantic Collaborative Teaching and Learning via Information and Communications Technology

Abstract

The overall aim of this project was to investigate the potential of problem-based learning (PBL), supported by information and communications technology (ICT), to develop key, transferable and requisite skills and knowledge, which are critical for practice as an occupational therapist. This paper provides an evaluation of the potential of the ICT employed in the study to enhance learning and teaching. The project entailed a transatlantic collaboration between the faculty members and students of The Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen (RGU), and the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse (UWL). Thirty students participated in the project. The ICT employed in the project included videoconferencing, email and computer-mediated conferencing (online discussion forum). The faculty members of the participating institutions generated a PBL case. The students received the case material by staged release via the virtual community and worked on developing appropriate assessment, treatment and resettlement strategies in geographical groupings, supported by email and the online discussion forum. They met and discussed their findings via videoconferences. The findings demonstrated that the ICT used was robust and provided a viable means of delivering the project content. The participants viewed the technology positively and their confidence and skills in using the technology progressed during the project.