How Web 2.0 Technologies Are Used in Higher Education: An Updated Review of Literature
Abstract: This paper is an updated review of the literature on Web 2.0 uses in higher education from 2007-2009 using the conference proceedings from four major international conferences in instructional technology: eLearn, EdMedia, SITE, and AECT. Following what we did and reported last year at eLearing conference, this follow-up review included papers from 2009. The goals of this review were (1) to identify what Web 2.0 technologies were used in college level instruction, and (2) to examine any research evidence that Web 2.0 technologies could enhance teaching and learning. The review showed that five Web 2.0 technologies were most commonly discussed in the current literature: blogs, wikis, podcasts, social networks, and virtual environments. There was a noticeable increase in reports on uses of social networking in 2009. The findings of how each of these Web 2.0 technologies was used in higher education along with any research evidence were discussed.
Presider: Qi Wang, Gallaudet University