Virtual Professional Development and Informal Learning via Social Networks

摘要

This book examines the role of Web 2.0 tools such as blogs, wikis and twitter in providing informal learning for professionals in the classroom and in the corporate environment. The purpose of this book is to explore new systems of participating in informal learning and staff development using problem solving and sharing stories via social communication networks such as Facebook, Twitter and Google + . Traditionally, the majority of learning tends to takes place in a formal, structured classroom setting. However, frequently the knowledge is not retained. The Community of Practice (CoP) is a concept whereby people can learn effectively by engaging in group tasks, share common interests and gain knowledge as they exchange information informally; however, this type of learning is not always possible. As an alternative, online social communication networks can be used to help professionals share knowledge and interact easily in a less structured environment, and this book is designed for academics and practitioners who are interested in new research and case studies in this area.