Virtual Collaborative Learning Using Wiki for Adult ODL Learners: The Case of Wawasan Open University

Abstract

Virtual collaborative learning has been gaining in popularity in open and distance learning (ODL) over the last decade. In collaborative learning environments, the instructors facilitate and initiate discussion on particularissues of concern. Students are given the chance to share their knowledge in a way theyhave not been used to and the possibility of participating in a coordinated effort to solve problems together. A preliminary study showed that collaborative learning activities enhancedstudent satisfaction, achievedthe course learning outcomes and encouragedgroup participation. Peer-to-peer interaction has been shown to be successful and can be engaged in during collaborative learning activities. Wiki is widely promoted as a virtual collaborative tool and has been integrated into several learning management systems. However, there are only limited studies on the effectiveness of moodle-wiki for virtual collaborative learning. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of moodle-wiki in terms of students' perceptions and performance. The data collected were analysed and evaluated, and the statistical results demonstrate that the students hadpositive perceptions of moodle-wiki and the collaborative tool enhanced their learning performance. This study will be useful for instructors and course designers as a guide to investigating students' perceptions and evaluating the effectiveness of a collaborative tool. The findings of this research are also useful for stakeholders to maximize students' academic learning achievement.

Keywords

• online learning support
• instructional technologies
• virtual collaborative learning
• student-centred learning
• odl environment
• learning process