Using social media to develop personal learning environments and self-regulated learning skills: a case study

Abstract

Personal learning environment or PLE is a relatively new concept that is premised on social media technologies and steadily gaining ground as an effective platform for student learning. PLEs are student-designed around each student's goals or learning approach requiring students to engage in self-regulated learning (SRL) to succeed. The aim of the present study is to examine how students create PLEs using social media and the extent to which they engage in SRL in the process. Five participants, two males and three females, participated in this study. Using a case study approach these participants were interviewed to uncover what processes of SRL they use while developing their PLE and whether social media are effective learning and development tools. The findings show that PLE development engages students in SRL particularly in the processes of goal setting, task strategies, self-monitoring and self-evaluation. The findings also revealed that participants reported being intrinsically motivated in using social media to create their PLE. The implications for practice and future research are discussed.