Shared Publications
Web 2.0 Technologies for Learning at Key Stages 3 and 4 – Summary Report
| Author | BECTA |
|---|---|
| Publisher | BECTA |
| Description |  A research report which presents the findings of a study aiming to investigate the use and impact of web 2.0 technologies for learning at key stages 3 and 4 in England. The research involved a survey of 2,600 pupils at 27 schools, including schools who were experimenting with web 2.0 technologies and those which were not, supplemented by focus groups with students.
The study found that there is a lack of research evidence on the impact of web 2.0 technologies on learning. However, the authors highlight that web 2.0 tools fit well with the current policy emphasis in England on personalised learning, and could also be used to support autonomous learning. In practice, the research found that web 2.0 technology is being used extensively at key stages 3 and 4. The authors conclude that most learners are producers rather than consumers of internet content. Of the learners involved in the survey, 74 per cent have social networking accounts and 78 per cent have uploaded material to the internet. However, nearly all of this web 2.0 activity is currently outside school, and for social purposes. Where web 2.0 is being used in schools, it is generally at an exploratory stage, although some individual schools and teachers are innovating in its use. There was some evidence that web 2.0 technologies had a positive impact on learning, for instance in engaging in collaborative learning activities. |
| Download free material(s) |  Web 2.0 Technologies for Learning at Key Stages 3 and 4: Summary Report - PDF (516 KB) |