COMPARING THE ALTERNATIVE LEARNING MODELS OF WIKIQUALS & CROS AND THEIR USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

Abstract

In recent years both WikiQuals & CROS have implemented alternative models of Universities. Wikiquals is based on the Emergent Learning Model, presented at CELDA 2009, and CROS have developed their Alternative University since 2007 based on participant design. Whilst the Emergent Learning Model is derived from a series of projects and theories that developed from the use of eLearning and social media and have moved to real world activities, CROS started with a group of people engaging in real world activities and enhanced their educational model by using social media as a learning resource and environment. The Emergent Learning Model was derived from earlier theories, most notably the Open Context Model of Learning which is an open learning based on what had been learnt about pedagogy from earlier work with eLearning software. Consequently the model was built around an 'obuchenie' approach, looking at the evolving relationship between teachers and learners in the new learning contexts post Web 2.0. The Emergent Learning Model is an interpretation of the relationships between informal, non-formal and formal learning in line with the EUs post-Bologna requirements for i2020, redefining what we mean by each of these types of learning. Critically learning content is defined as 'structured learning opportunities without formal learning outcomes', or 'non-formal learning'. In Web2.0 the ability to publish is termed 'user-generated content', and we regard the ability to create 'learner-generated' content as an important element of emergent learning. The WikiQuals project is based on self-publishing learner-generated content at doctoral level, with each 'Sqolar' developing personal learning networks as part of a self-accrediting process. The Alternative University (AU) project was envisioned as developing a student-centred model of higher education for Romania and was initially a community of practice for Student NGOs members. The educational model evolves yearly and now comprises various learning programs derived from the following; supported learning, social learning and practical learning. Other learning resources and support are used, such as the Learning House, My Learning Tribe online community (social media) or The Game (gamification). The whole model is designed to support autonomous learning behaviour in students building a community of learners. The online community supports students' learning processes and grows with the model's capacity to support the learning community. Online tools used for social and/or learning purposes are evolving and adapting fast to the real needs of the learners. These act as rapid adaptive learning management systems or eco-systems and also indicate the reality and health of that community. So, the AU model is enhancing its capacity to generate learning and facilitate learners autonomy by matching and augmenting the real life experiences with the online. We will compare them given that WikiQuals is learner-centric personalised-learning concerned with self-accreditation, whereas CROS is student-centred, self-directed, social learning with a stronger focus on working within a community of practice.