Developing Pedagogy : The Role of the Tutor in Enabling Student Learning through the Use of a Wiki

Abstract

This chapter intends to clarify the role of the tutor in enabling student learning through the use of a Wiki application. Such clarification will firstly establish that there is a clear role for the tutor in establishing a Wiki learning environment to support collaborative learning through assessment. Secondly, this chapter will provide guidance on how this role can be enacted as this area of practice develops further. This will be achieved through a practical example of using the “Collaborative Learning through Assessment and Technology” (CLAT) pedagogical model which is underpinned by social constructivism and the principles of ‘good teaching and learning practice’. The argument is made that a Wiki when used in this way is a learning resource to support collaborative learning. This chapter will help the reader to understand the Wiki concepts and their potential to enhance collaborations, knowledge development, and transfer. Further, this chapter presents the key concepts to prepare learners for using a Wiki within a blended learning framework. This includes the use of the CLAT model when considering the learning design and adaption to curriculum in order to achieve the concepts and practices that are necessary in collaborative learning through the use of a Wiki application in higher education.