Is the village common in a cloud? Cooperative education and social networking

Abstract

Background: In this paper communication and content issues which arise in cooperative communication courses are identified from a discussion of recent literature. Issue: Often administrators and managers of cooperative education courses struggle to manage the complex interactions of students, staff and hosts. In recent years, email, learning management systems, such as Moodle and Blackboard, and Internet Sites have provided mechanisms for communication and sharing of information. However, as Web 2.0 becomes Web 3.0, and there are more online applications which allow increased user participation and collaboration are social networking applications such as Ning and SocialGo more appropriate in a cooperative education environment? Could online social networking sites enhance a practice based learning course? Could social networking in cooperative education provide a competitive advantage for institutions? Discussion: Social networking concepts and ideas are explored in relation to cooperative education. The advantages and disadvantages of social networking are identified from the perspectives of students, staff and hosts. Information and communication technology enhanced teaching and learning (ICTELT) is introduced as a model. The added value opportunities for tertiary education institutions from social networking activity are discussed. Conclusions: More research is needed into the use of social networking applications, the effectiveness of ICTELT and possible additional advantages for tertiary education institutions. Implications: The results of research into social networking use in cooperative education courses will provide valuable insights for course managers.