Proposal for a definition of the process of knowledge construction in learning virtual communities

Abstract

This paper presents a study about knowledge construction in virtual communities, using an exchange of information in mailing lists and forums, and the use of Twiki software used in collaborative construction, where participants construct, anonymous and collaboratively content about different subjects. These tools support documents production and texts made by groups with common goals. The Web is not just a technology and platform for transmission and information access, but an interface for interaction and collaborative construction of learning. These new forms of knowledge construction put in focus the social nature of knowledge, where learning is not separate from action, and learning processes geared more to the community than to the individual. Collaborative learning stresses active participation and interaction of all members. Knowledge is seen as a social construction, therefore, the educational process is favored.