Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning at Work: CSCL@Work goes TEL@Work

We propose the topic of “CSCL at Work” which we advanced through workshops at ACM Group 2010, ACM Group 2012 and CSCL 2013. The resulting book raises an important set of issues and potential topics for research and practice but, like any agenda setting work, does not solve thorny or controversial issues. CSCL@Work provides one possible viewpoint for bridging informal learning and work. The purpose of our proposal is to share innovative approaches discovered to date, and gain input focused on solutions aimed for understanding, studying and designing Technology-enhanced learning at work. From 13 case studies, three main theses can be derived that characterize how and when learning at work takes places, A) Learning occurs in unexpected and unusual online learning places, including Social Media. B) Learning activities incorporate feedback from diverse sources, which are not available within traditional organizational boundaries. C) learning takes place across established boundaries. Theses issues inform the design of collaborative technologies, technology-enhanced learning (TEL) and sociotechnical learning practices. To make learning visible, we argue that individual and collaborative learning design must support the alignment of pedagogical, social and technological design. This alignment will increase the likelihood of both surface and deep learning at the workplace.