Courses as Seeds: Expectations and Realities

Abstract

In our long-term efforts to support collaborative learning, we are exploring how to supplement communitybased learning theories with innovative collaborative technologies. Inspired by a process model that underlies the evolutionary and decentralized development of open systems, we reconceptualize courses as seeds rather than as finished products. This paper outlines the conceptual framework underlying the courses-as-seeds model and contrasts it with traditional educational models in which courses are seen as finished products. Characteristics of course information environments (CIEs) as supporting technology are then presented, along with a set of initial expectations that provide criteria for assessing applications of the model. Next, an application of the courses-as-seeds model in a university course is reported and analyzed with respect to the expectations. We found that the primary challenges of applying the courses-as-seeds model were cultural in nature and more difficult than we anticipated. The paper presents these findings in more detail, and closes with suggestions for future refinement of the approach.