English Abstract: Growing Knowledge

Information and communication technology (ICT) enables discussion at a distance and without it being simultaneous. This we can call e-discussion. The supporting technical system is often called a forum system. Learning can be supported by ICT. Here, the focus is on communication between people, mainly on how collaborative learning can be supported through forum systems. When participants themselves can choose time and place as well as their method for learning, we can call it flexible learning.

A gardener can give plants a good environment. How can teachers create a good environment for growing knowledge in groups of people who learn? This question was analyzed in an e-discussion before an international conference as well as in the physical meeting of the participants, their discussion and their collaborative writing. Here, documentation is given in Study C. Further, findings from two own empirical studies (A and B) of distance courses with two different forum systems are used to underpin a conceptual model. The model deals with how pedagogy and technology can interact with participants, organization and course content so as to facilitate flexible learning.

From previous practice, findings and theory as well as the characteristics of computer-mediated communication the following are derived: (1) Tips for teachers and (2) suggested functions to insert support in forum systems. In particular, the role of teachers, their behaviour, and need of support are illuminated.