Cultural dynamics of informal and collaborative learning spaces

Nicol Pan and Robert Fox
University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong SAR, China

This study investigates the nature of learning activities occurring in physical and virtual spaces outside formal lecture rooms and classrooms in a tertiary institution, focusing specifically on collaborative learning activities and social interactions among learning groups and how such groups use information and communication technology (ICT) to support learning activities.

The research was conducted at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), one of the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in the Asian region. The HKU is looking to become internationally recognized and, like other 'world-class universities' around the world, it is going through major reforms in both its curriculum structure and pedagogic approaches. One area of change is the increasing adoption of ICT in teaching and learning practices across faculties, especially for collaborative types of learning activities such as project work and group learning. The University has ambitious plans to build new campus areas and renovate existing campus buildings to create what it believes will be relevant and up-to-date learning spaces. These learning spaces are designed to meet the needs of the change from a three- to four-year undergraduate degree which will come into full effect in all higher education institutions in Hong Kong in 2012. This is a rare opportunity for researchers to become involved in the changes to the learning and teaching environments occurring in a tertiary institute. This study provides (1) an in-depth exploration of collaborative learning in new conceptual places such as the 'learning commons' and the 'learning café', and of the social and cultural dynamics of such learning spaces; (2) an in-depth investigation of student learning styles, preferences and other important learning issues relevant to their experiences in such learning activities and learning spaces. These issues may include where and how students conduct out-of-class and collaborative learning activities, and the important spatial, cultural and technological elements that may limit or increase the chances of success in their learning activities.