12006

12006

General Session - Conference Presentation Only (40 minutes, no formal paper), Refereed Paper with Presentation (40 minutes)

Carol Rubel, Kaplan University/Online, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, USA, crubel@kaplan.edu Marie Wallace, Kaplan University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, USA, mwallace@kaplan.edu April Adams, Kaplan University, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, USA, aadams2@kaplan.edu
 * Promoting a Culture of Best Practices Using Wikis and Blogs in Virtual Education**

Abstract: This two week qualitative, descriptive study assessed best practices used with wikis and blogs in Learning Spaces within 14 sections of an online graduate teacher education courses to determine whether current instructional procedures were aligned with best practices. Data collection was based on a 10 question questionnaire, and data were analyzed using open and axial coding and theoretical coding procedures to identify emerging categories and themes. Eight categories as well as the four basic best practice themes emerged: (a) Feedback through collaboration; (b) Using technology within a culture of learning; (c) Building knowledge through thought provoking activities; and (d) Teacher intervention and monitoring. Based on the study findings, professional development may be developed to ensure effective, best practice for using wikis and blogs in online course instruction.

//Interactivity// This is an interactive power point presentation.

All Audiences blogs, wikis, online learning, best practices