While connectivity and learning through alternative means of digital applications has become more widely accepted, is its effectiveness assured? For example, as Wang &Wei (2011) indicate, there can be misalignments between the practice of technology-supported learning and organisational norms in areas such as knowledge sharing. If this knowledge isn’t shared, or is shared via means that are only understood by a specific group, does that equate to effective networked learning?
I pose not.
Furthermore, as the art of elearning becomes more sophisticated, how can its effectiveness increase through the application of NetGL? There have been many criticisms of elearning since its inception, with some commentators noting it is often to measure. Vaughan & MacVicar (2004) suggest that elearning can be ineffective if it is not clearly related to clearly measurable outcomes, but claim that detailed analysis on those outcomes should be conducted before elearning is adopted. Yes, that was 11 years ago. However, more recently Mohammadyari & Singh (2015) noted that as new generations of e-learning technology arise being able to quickly adopt and use them for one's training becomes a valuable skill because it means greater control over one's learning environment. But individuals who are less able to adopt new tools may be stuck with e-learning from the previous generations, which may be less customizable, less portable, and difficult to query, making their elearning experience less effective.
So, is the constant shift in and upgrading of e-learning technology conducive to success, and if an individual’s digital literacy isn’t capable of keeping them up, will NetGL be effective?
Again, I pose not.
Therefore, this highlights the value of exploring a learner’s digital literacy before surrounding them with a networked learning environment.
Mohammadyari, S., & Singh, H. (2015). Understanding the effect of e-learning on individual performance: The role of digital literacy. Computers & Education, 82, 11-25. Chicago
Vaughan, K., & MacVicar, A. (2004). Employees' pre-implementation attitudes and perceptions to e-learning: A banking case study analysis. Journal of European Industrial Training, 28(5), 400-413.
Wang, W. T., & Wei, Z. H. (2011). Knowledge sharing in wiki communities: an empirical study. Online Information Review, 35(5), 799-820.