International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning (Sep 2012)

Facebook groups as LMS: A case study

  • Hagit Meishar-Tal,
  • Gila Kurtz,
  • Efrat Pieterse

DOI
https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v13i4.1294
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 13, no. 4

Abstract

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This paper describes a pilot study in using Facebook as an alternative to a learning management system (LMS). The paper reviews the current research on the use of Facebook in academia and analyzes the differences between a Facebook group and a regular LMS. The paper reports on a precedent–setting attempt to use a Facebook group as a course website, serving as a platform for delivering content and maintaining interactions among the students and between the students and the lecturer. The paper presents findings from the students’ self-assessments and reflections on their experience. The students expressed satisfaction with learning in Facebook and willingness to continue using these groups in future courses.

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