Personalization in technology enhanced learning

There is a wide agreement that traditional Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) models have failed to cope with the fast-paced change and critical challenges of the new knowledge era. In this thesis, the Learning as a Network (LaaN) theory is introduced as a response to the increasing complexity of the new learning environments. LaaN draws upon connectivism, complexity theory, and double-Ioop learning. It views knowledge as a personal network and represents a knowledge ecological approach to learning. Based on the LaaN theory, the 3P Learning Model is discussed as an alternative TEL model that represents a fundamental shift toward a more personalized, social, open, dynamic, emergent and knowledge-pull model for learning, as opposed to the onesize-fits-all, centralized, static, top-down, and knowledge-push paradigms of traditional TEL models. Finally, the Social Software Supported Learning Framework is presented as a TEL information system that illustrates the 3P learning model in action, by implementing the main ideas underpinning the 3P learning model, based on Web 2.0 concepts and social software technologies.