The SSW4LL Format

Abstract

This chapter develops the characterisation of a PLE as a LLL tool by detailing the SSW4LL (Social Semantic Web for Lifelong Learners) format. After an overview about the aims, possible scenarios and elements of the SSW4LL format, a motivated choice of adult lifelong learners’ needs that SSW4LL aims to meet is developed. Subsequently, the chapter illustrates the learning paradigm and strategies that underpin SSW4LL. Then, the SSW4LL system, the technological architecture, is presented as a whole made up of components of formal and informal learning environments. The formal learning environment is devised by Moodle 2.0; a description and an evaluation of Moodle 2.0 features are provided, with a focus on the potential of its conditional activities as a suitable mechanism of learning adaptation. Concurrently, this part identifies the benefits of Felder–Silverman’s learning style model, which was selected as the most suitable learning style model for the use in LMSs. The elements of the informal learning environment, Semantic MediaWiki, Diigo and Google+, are presented and their implications within the SSW4LL format are discussed. The next section of the chapter deals with the organisation of the format: the resources needed a user case scenario, and a flow chart of the steps of the format implementation are outlined. Finally, a SWOT analysis provides evaluation elements for the format.