Evaluation of a collaborative virtual learning environment

Abstract

Research results concerning the evaluation of a collaborative virtual learning environment (CVLE) are presented in this paper. The focus of the evaluation is the perceptions of the learners concerning the technical and social qualities of a CVLE. It is argued in this paper that course designers and system developers should put efforts to build technically robust CVLEs with proper social infrastructure. The research results showed that although some of the failures experienced by users in CVLEs are based on technological reasons, some others are based on the lack of proper social arrangements. Additionally, if CVLEs are implemented in an international environment special attention should be paid for language and cultural differences. This research also argues about the evaluation of CVLEs that should follow a socio‐technical approach, to cover both technological and social issues.