Using P2P e-Learning Technology to Turbocharge Learning Environments

Abstract

Education and commerce in the twenty-first century is very different from the industrial age and is characterized by rapid changes in student diversity and expectations, educational content, and in products, markets, and competitors. Peer-to-peer (P2P) e-Learning extends that definition to embrace computer-mediated collaboration as the primary means of collaboration. There is also strong evidence that P2P learning is more effective than expert-centered learning. P2P learning leverages the learning pyramid by relying heavily on direct discussion, knowledge sharing, and teaching modes of communication. This chapter demonstrates the TEAMThink application, and presents various case studies for more detailed analysis. The case studies will be presented by describing the collaborative course processes, illustrates the use of P2P collaboration technology, and examines the impact of P2P collaboration technologies on learning and the development of strategic partnerships.