A framework to support knowledge sharing and construction in virtual learning communities

This research aims at the development of a computational framework to support knowledge construction and sharing in Virtual Learning Communities. The distinctive characteristic of the framework is that the support will be tailored to the community as a whole, rather than adapting to particular individuals. A key component in the framework is a community knowledge model, which will be derived from monitoring the knowledge sharing process and will be used to support the building of transactive memory and shared mental models, as well as to identify cognitively central and peripheral members. These issues are important in Virtual Learning Communities (both in educational and organisational context), as they promote the processes of knowledge/information sharing, collaborative learning, and development of collective efficacy among community members.