Symposium 3: Transdisciplinary research in technology enhanced/networked learning practices

Symposium Introduction

Abstract

This symposium addresses the conference theme, theories and methodologies for research in networked learning, through exploring transdisciplinary research in the context of technology enhanced/networked learning (TEL/NL) practices across diverse geographical and disciplinary settings. For the purposes of this symposium, transdisciplinarity is distinguished from cross-, multi-, inter-, and post-disciplinarity via its combined recognition of sustained organising epistemological structures of disciplines, potential for disciplinary reorientation through dialogue, and focus on researching practices. Networked learning is distinguished from TEL by its constructionist underpinnings, its relational perspective on linkages among tutors, learners, and learning resources, and its "participative and democratic values" (Hodgson & Reynolds, 2005, p.11). The more generalist term, TEL, is defined by its accommodation of a broader range of ontological, epistemological, and pedagogical perspectives (Parchoma, 2011).