Embedding web 2.0 into workplace learning

Paul Coyne shows some Case studies and reflections:
Why workplace based learning?
Develops critical awareness of research and inquiry issues - self awareness
Involves learning practical

We have a diversity of

• learners on the workplace.
• learning platforms (formal and informal)

Do we support these formats?
Formal course (using web2.0 tools like blog for reflection, wiki for group and individual work
Use of a non-formal academy with action learning, group focus, personal reflection, tacit to explicit knowledge exchange and assessed. (blogs for learning blogs, personal reflection, wiki for group reflection).

He used ELGG open source platform.
After the first month of launch not a big use. Why?

• Another system to learn,
  
• more passwords to remember,
  
• security and confidentiality concerns,
  
• high barriers to participation.

In the meanwhile some other were impressed as

• sms and email alerts were included,
  
• remote contribution to mail, text, ms word and other tools allowed,
  
• reduced the feature set and simplified the design.

After some changes the first users used it more frequently as

• They didn't need to learn a new IT platform in order to use the service effectively.
  
• They can use the more advanced web 2.0 features.

Still some will never use this as

• security and confidentiality concerns
• anxiety of expressing opinions on a public safe
• inability of teaching staff to use the system
• Can't see the value or the point for such an approach.

Some reflections:

• Simple, works (don't offer all users all features, it can be very overwelming)
• web 2.0 evangelism will get you so far
• Be prepared (f.i. support the staff in the long term)