Using online learning journals as a developmental tool for professional learning: Supporting the development of new Russian social policy

Hulme, R. and Hulme, M. (2005) Using online learning journals as a developmental tool for professional learning: Supporting the development of new Russian social policy. International Journal of Technology, Knowledge and Society, 1(1),

Abstract

This paper explores the use of computer-mediated communication (CMC) to support reflective writing as part of an international professional learning project: Manchester Metropolitan University's European Union funded project to establish 'A Centre for Social Policy for Udmurt State University', Russia. The paper outlines research evaluating the relative effectiveness of using a virtual learning environment (VLE) to support reflective journal writing among participants who are geographically dispersed and working in different occupational fields. The paper outlines how CMC was used to facilitate asynchronous peer review of shared writing among academics, policy makers and practitioners participating in a cycle of mobilities between Russia, Finland and the United Kingdom (2003-2005). The purpose of the mobilities is to encourage cross-national professional learning and knowledge 'transfer' to support the establishment of a new Centre for the study of Social Policy in the central Russian state of Udmurt. Ten writers participated in the journaling project and were involved as co-researchers in collaborative action research. Text from the journals was exported and analysed using NVivo software. Contributions were examined in terms of frequency and content, with particular attention afforded to the mentoring role and the discursive quality of developing discussions i.e. professional dialogue generated.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Hulme, Dr Moira
• Authors: Hulme, R., and Hulme, M.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Education > Pedagogy Policy and Practice
• Journal Name: International Journal of Technology, Knowledge and Society
• ISSN: 1832-3669