Open Content, Open Learning 2.0: Using Wikis and Blogs in Higher Education

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the use of open content social software (wikis and blogs) as online supporting and enabling tools for students in higher education. The chapter presents arguments from both strategic and pedagogical perspectives and focuses particularly on the reality of pedagogical change where self-directed and self-organized “informal” learning, open content, and open learning are challenging the traditionally accepted roles of both students and teachers. The chapter describes approaches used to promote best practice in the use of blogs and wikis for reflective practice, knowledge creation, and the promotion of a culture of sharing and collaboration. It introduces a new five-stage model of online learning activities presented as an adaptive framework and a second model which has been created to enable visualization of Web 2.0 tool integration. The chapter argues that open content tools present opportunities to promote positive changes in university education to enhance quality and extend access, by encouraging student-generated content, knowledge creation, and self-organized learning processes, wherever students are located.