An Innovative Web-Based Collaborative Learning Model and Application Structure

Web-based learning is becoming a popular learning approach with the rapid development of Web technology, and collaborative learning can improve learning performance of students. Web-based collaborative learning provides students with collaborative skills, communication skills, creativity, critical thinking skills, and skills in information technology application. This paper presents a Web-based collaborative learning model which emphasizes student-centered instruction. The procedure in this learning model consists of five steps: definition of learning task, team plan, collaborate research, achievement summary, and final assessment. Then the application structure of the Web-based collaborative learning model is developed with latest information technology and data technology. A case based on the collaborative learning model is developed in the end, and the collaborative learning environment could foster students to be cooperative, caring, reflective, critical and creative.

I. Introduction

It is the theme of the current educational reform to foster Collaborative and communicative abilities among students in China. Contemporary information technology brings out web-based communication techniques, and the traditional collaborative approach is adopting web-based techniques. Collaborative skills, communication skills, creativity, critical thinking skills, skills in using information technology, calculation skills, problem solving skills, self management skills and study skills are thought to be the essential skills to be mastered by students. Students should be well equipped with so many skills that they can be capable of solve any potential problems in the dynamic and complicated workplace.