Learning in Mediated Environments

Last week, I had the opportunity to meet Mark Childs from Warwick, in the context of his short visit to CARET. Over an informal lunch, a bunch of CARET researchers and learning technologists battered Mark with questions about his work on interesting projects such as DIVERSE (developing video resources for students) and his PhD research on Learners' Experiences of Mediated Environments.

We had a very enjoyable group discussion around the issues and challenges associated with researching learning in relation to students' lived experiences, and how patterns of learning and student behaviours alike are increasingly mediated by technology. Mark had a lot of stories to share, particularly in relation to using qualitative methods, and the challenges posed by researching learning in mediated environments. He is especially interested in issues associated with "presence" in virtual worlds, such as Second Life. Thanks to Mark for his time and input!