Collaborative Learning is the pedagogical approach that considers social interactions as key means to trigger rich learning processes. Collaborative Learning Flow Patterns define best practices to orchestrate collaborative learning flow mechanisms (i.e., group formation, roles or resources allocation, phase change). Flow patterns have been experimented and evaluated as effective in small scale learning settings for decades. Directly applying patterns to large learning scenarios is challenging due to the burden that scale represents in the orchestration load and the difficulty of keeping a dynamic meaningful progression when flexible changes are required in a large classroom or in a MOOC.

 

This dissertation focuses on how collaborative learning could address key challenges (i.e., scalability and dynamism) identified in large collaborative learning contexts. The work composes of a systematic literature review of collaborative learning applications on large classes and analyses the social learning potential of diverse technology-supported spaces in massive courses. Consequently, the thesis proposes a Pyramid flow pattern instantiation, composed of a model with a set of algorithmic rules for flow creation, control and awareness as well as a PyramidApp authoring and enactment system implementing the model. Experimentation across diverse learning contexts shows that, on one hand, thesis contributions support meaningful scalable and dynamic collaborative learning and on the other hand, learners and educators perceive the experiences as engaging, with learning values and effective from the perspective of orchestration.

 

Experience as a PhD student

Joining the UPF as a PhD candidate was one of my best decisions as I enjoyed being a part of this community during these four years. Apart from the valuable guidance of my thesis advisor, UPF provided various opportunities to enrich my knowledge on diverse research aspects through numerous workshops and interdisciplinary research seminars. The international, multi-cultured friendship I received from my friends and colleagues made me feel warmly welcome at the UPF and the support I received from the attentive DTIC administrative staff was wonderful.