weSPOT: A personal and social toolkit for inquiry-based learning

Abstract

Personal Learning Environments have recently emerged as a novel approach to learning, putting learners in the spotlight and providing them with the tools for building their own learning environments according to their specific learning needs and aspirations. This approach enables learners to take complete control over their learning, thus becoming self-regulated and independent. This paper introduces a European initiative for supporting and enhancing inquiry-based learning via a personal and social toolkit. This approach aims at supporting students in developing their self-regulated learning skills by conducting scientific inquiries in collaboration with their peers.