Networking: A Driving Force for e-learning

Carole McCulloch

Carole McCulloch is an e-learning consultant working independently for her business, Macro Dimensions in the North East of Victoria, Australia.

In this article Carole explores the notion that networking is a driving force for e-learning, through reflection on the development of e-learning networks, established under the 2005 Australian Flexible Learning Framework (the 2005 Framework). She introduces the networks, examines their design, explores why the networks formed, and how connectivism, collaboration and networking strategies were used by network members. She focuses on their stories, reporting on interviews conducted with network facilitators, mentors and members and the perceived learning and benefits that they have experienced. Conclusions are drawn about the nature of networked learning and the role of networks in the convergence of e-learning and e-business. Reflecting on the tools, strategies and performance of the e-learning networks, Carole explains why networking is a driving force for learning about e-learning.

View the digital stories which accompany this article (see wmvs below) to hear from the Emerging Technologies Network (ETN) and the Kowanyama students of the Certificate II in Broadcasting (Radio) from the Queensland Indigenous Registered Training Organisation (RTO) Association network.

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