Internet-based web-mediated collaborative design and learning environment

Constructivist learning emphasizes students’ involvement in the learning process, how they become self-directed learners and actively engaged in the learning environment. This chapter describes Collaborative Virtual Environment (CVE) and its relevance to collaborative learning and constructivism. The authors developed the Collaborative World Design Tool (CWDT) software to evaluate the benefits of CVE for architectural design students. The CWDT was developed based on the Torque 3D Game Engine, thus the appearance and functionalities of the CWDT within the CVE are similar to computer game playing environment. In the experiment, subjects designed within the CVE, were either experts or novices, worked either individually or in pairs, and constructed a virtual building in a three-dimensional outdoor environment. Results show that working collaboratively within a CVE has great potential to increase performance where teamwork is faster than individual work, and overall provide a constructive learning environment.

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The Construction of a Web-Based Learning Platform from the Perspective of Computer Support for Collaborative Design

International Journal of Online Pedagogy and Course Design ◽

10.4018/ijopcd.2013100104 ◽

2013 ◽

Vol 3 (4) ◽

pp. 44-67 ◽

Cited By ~ 3

Author(s):

Cheng-Mei Hsu

Keyword(s):

Collaborative Learning ◽

Learning Environment ◽

Collaborative Design ◽

Computer Support ◽

Significant Advance ◽

Innovative Technology ◽

Computer Assisted ◽

Mind Mapping ◽

Web Based ◽

Learning Platform

The purpose of this study is to construct a web-based Computer Support for Collaborative Design (CSCD) learning platform based on theories related to a constructivist learning environment model, mind mapping and computer-supported collaborative learning. The platform conforms to the needs of design students and provides effective tools for interaction and collaborative learning by integrating mind-mapping tools into a learning environment that utilizes CSCD, a computer-assisted support system that can support and enhance group collaboration. The establishment of the CSCD learning platform represents a significant advance beyond the fixed functions and existing models of current online learning platforms and is the only learning platform in the world that focuses on learners in design departments. The platform offers outstanding user-friendly functions and innovative technology. In terms of funding, technical ability, human resources, organizational strategies, and risk analysis and evaluations, the learning platform is also worthy of expansion and implementation.

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