Plenary

The rise of social software, often termed Web 2.0, has resulted in exciting opportunities for creative and innovative approaches to learning and training that are afforded by network technologies. Social software platforms and emerging pedagogies are now part of the learning landscape both for those who learn formally within institutions, and for those who learn informally via web-based learning communities. The opportunities for communication and collaboration on a global scale are unprecedented.

How are learners using social media in everyday settings, and how does this relate to the use of social media in education and training?

In this presentation, I will explore these topics and present powerful examples of innovation, creativity, serendipity and opportunity. Taking a long-term view of the use of social media in education and training, I will highlight key areas including: digital identities; open education; students as producers; peer mentoring and behaviour modelling; gamification and the power of the network.