A Critical Review: Use of Wenger's Community of Practice Framework in Online/Blended Learning Research, 2000–2014

• In Event: 14.045 - Roundtable Session 2
  In Roundtable Session: 14.045-21 - Community of Practice, Attitudinal Learning, Personal Learning Networks, and Community

Abstract

Using integrative research review methodology, this paper examines how the key elements of Wenger’s communities of practice (CoP) theory, a widely cited and influential conception of social learning, have been used in research studies investigating online/blended learning in higher education and in professional development. Data included 62 research articles published between 2000 and 2014 in English-language/international journals. Data analysis included quantitative and qualitative approaches and findings are presented under three research questions: Which research studies within the online/blended learning literature made central use of this framework? Which ones established strong linkages between the CoP framework and their findings? What patterns in the use of this framework suggest opportunities for future research and practice in online teaching and learning?

Authors

• Sedef Uzuner Smith, University of Houston - Downtown

• Suzanne Hayes, University at Albany - SUNY

• Peter Shea, University at Albany - SUNY