Learning conversations: A case study into e-learning communities

This paper reports some preliminary findings on the effect of social interaction on learning as evinced by the analysis of an on-line community implemented in a distance education MSc course. Following the socio-constructivist approach, the community was designed to support students in purposeful, intentional and collaborative learning. The case study indicates that communication in a positive environment has the potential for fostering learning and improving academic achievement. Implications for e-learning design and evaluation are discussed.