Social Learning in Higher Education

Abstract

The sector wide development of social learning spaces in Higher Education (HE) institutions is recognition of the important role that ‘social learning’ plays in contemporary HE. Following an empirical study, Matthews, Andrews & Adams (2011) concluded that social learning spaces can contribute to enhanced student engagement by fostering active learning, social interaction and belonging amongst students. The study also revealed that social learning helps to foster a sense of community amongst students in broad discipline based programs, promoting a supportive campus environment and greater overall satisfaction.