Article Green Open Access 2013

Integrating project-based learning into an undergraduate programme using Web 2.0 and videoconferencing

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education
Journal · Vol. 5 · Issue 1 · pp. 129-140
Abstract

Purpose – Project-based learning has been used in a number of disciplines to provide undergraduate students with the opportunity to simulate professional activities and apply theory to practice. It has been identified as an effective way to develop a range of transferable skills required by employers. This article aims to report a novel application of project-based learning, which provided students with an opportunity to work on an international collaboration, facilitated by videoconferencing and Web 2.0. Design/methodology/approach – Drawing on a number of data sources, this article examines the contribution that project-based learning made to the development of key skills which employers within the media industry expect graduates to possess. Findings – Conclusions suggest how project-based learning can be used more widely to develop a range of employability skills. The international context and the use of new technologies were also seen by students to be important aspects of the project. Students offered some original insights into how these may enhance project-based learning. Originality/value – This study deals with a novel application of project-based learning, which gave students an opportunity to work on an international collaboration, facilitated by videoconferencing and Web 2.0. Students offered some original insights into how the international context and the use of new technologies may enhance project-based learning. © 2013, © Emerald Group Publishing Limited.

Keywords

Author Keywords

Project-Based Learning employability employment Learning Learning Methods International Collaboration foundation degrees Media disciplines

Index Keywords

Author Affiliations
Pedagogic Research Institute and Observatory, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, Devon, United Kingdom
Exeter College, Devon, Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom
Funding & Acknowledgements
No funding information
References 10 References
1 Barron, Brigid J.S., Doing with Understanding: Lessons from Research on Problem- and Project-Based Learning, Journal of the Learning Sciences, 7, 3-4, pp. 271-311, (1998)
2 Researching Foundation Degrees Linking Research and Practice, (2006)
3 Miracle Picture A Vision of Solutions in Couple Therapy, (1992)
4 Using Experience for Learning, (1993)
5 Burke, Linda M., Towards a pedagogy of work-based learning: Perceptions of work-based learning in foundation degrees, Journal of Vocational Education and Training, 61, 1, pp. 15-33, (2009)
6 Charlton, Terence, Using Facebook to improve communication in undergraduate software development teams, Computer Science Education, 19, 4, pp. 273-292, (2009)
7 Work Related Learning Wrl in Higher Education A Scoping Study, (2006)
8 Researching Learning in Higher Education an Introduction to Contemporary Methods and Approaches, (2009)
9 Davies, Lloyd, Why kick the “L” out of “LEarning”? The development of students’ employability skills through part-time working, Education + Training, 42, 8, pp. 436-445, (2000)
10 Emerging Issues in the Practice of University Learning and Teaching, (2005)
Quick Actions
Full Text via DOI
Citation Metrics
10
Times Cited (Scopus)

References 10
Document Identifiers