FROM NETWORKED LEARNING TO SMART LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS: A POSSIBLE PATH TOWARD A LEARNING ECOLOGY

This paper is an endeavor to sketch a conceptual bridge between the experience of networked learning and the ideas underlying the pedagogy of smart learning environments. This endeavor is motivated by the question of how learning in online settings can be made more effective, efficient and engaging on a larger and sustainable scale for learners with different levels of prior knowledge, different background and different interests. Presented study is based on theoretical research and empirical evidence. The theoretical research focuses on identifying common features shared by the concepts of networked learning and smart learning. Empirical research focuses on analyzing students’ perceptions of networked learning and linking the analysed data to critical characteristics of smart learning environments. For this study, the concept of a smart learning environment was operationalized by indicators such as effectiveness, efficiency, engagement, flexibility and reflectiveness. The participants were students in an online course in Educational use of social media, Nord University, Norway. The objective of the study serves the goal of defining smart education from the perspective of learners and their role within learning ecologies.