Program+Description

=**Self-Directed Processes and Virtual Communities in Non-Formal Learning Environments**=

This research program is being conducted by Educational Communications and Technology (ECMM), University of Saskatchewan as part of the ongoing activities of the [|Virtual Learning Communities Research Laboratory].

The VLC Research Laboratory is funded through the [|Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada] (SSHRC).



The research team of Dr. Richard Schwier (P.I.), Dr. Dirk Morrison, Dr. Ben K Daniel, Jaymie Koroluk, and Kirk Kezema will conduct research relating to this project starting July 1, 2008 and expect to complete the research by July 1, 2012.

**Research Program Abstract**
As the use of social computing tools increases, so does the interest of researchers in how social processes influence learning and engagement in virtual settings, spawning important questions that center on the socio-educational aspects of non-formal learning through these means of communication. This research program will examine self-directed learning (SDL) with the aim of understanding how virtual learning communities (VLC) support learning in non-formal learning environments. Specifically the research program examines two central questions: > >
 * 1) Are characteristics identified in formal virtual learning communities manifest in non-formal online learning environments, and do they inform our understanding of how these communities contribute to self-directed learning?
 * 1) How do contextual, situational, social and cultural issues influence participation in and self-directed learning from virtual learning communities in non-formal learning environments?

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