The human and social development in a virtual learning environment

Abstract

Online learning community has become an important vehicle for the success of virtual learning practices. Besides providing a platform for lecturers and students to communicate online for academic discussion on the course, LMS (Learning Management System) adopted by OUM (Open University Malaysia) and "Blogging", a component in an English for Social Sciences course (for distance learners) introduced by UKM also provides the opportunity for these adult learners to have social interaction among themselves. The social interaction among online learners is crucial not only for knowledge construction and mutual support but also for reduction of isolation and anxiety during the learning process. In view of this, this qualitative study intends to explore the social interactions among adult learners in these two situations. It will examine the implications of e-learning for higher education, which is oriented towards human and social development.