Engaging students in a multimedia cooperative- learning environment

A Malaysian experience

Abstract

This study focuses on developing a cooperative learning environment to promote active learning. Within this learning environment, multimedia technology and the use of Web 2.0 tools, namely, blogs were integrated to provide the students the opportunity to learn on their own as well as to document their process and experience within this cooperative learning environment. The purpose of the study is to determine its impact on student learning, their perceptions and learning experiences. Surveys were administrated to students to ascertain their reactions towards this learning environment. The results were encouraging as students managed to cooperate with each other to accomplish their common goal. The use of blogs served as a tool to enhance team cooperation and to foster a learning community within the class. This multimedia enhanced cooperative environment proved to be a viable alternative to the traditional classroom and was an effective strategy to enhance the students’ learning process.