HomeThe Asia-Pacific Education Researchervol. 21 no. 1 (2012)

A Collaborative Professional Development Model for Rapid Collaborative Knowledge Improvement in Singapore Schools

Yanjie Song | Wenli Chen | Chee-kit Looi

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

Rapid Collaborative Knowledge Improvement (RCKI) is a pedagogical approach for designing computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) activities in the classroom. We have conducted design-based research on RCKI using the software called GroupScribbles (GS) in a few Singapore schools for over four years. For professional development of the teachers, a collaborative-apprenticeship learning (CAL) model is adopted in which researchers and teachers collaborate via reciprocal interactions on joint activities towards mutual understanding on innovative practices premised on RCKI principles. The findings show that the CAL model helps teachers develop RCKI principled-based understanding and improve the enactment of the innovations in their classrooms.

d after 2007. In addition, empirical studies were favoured over positional and theoretical papers. It is found that the theoretical frameworks underpinning these empirical studies were strongly influenced by Western research philosophies, including knowledge building pedagogy and learning study theories. Moreover, nearly half of the empirical studies involved the use of computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) technologies. The findings of this study may provide insights to promote learning sciences research in the Asia-Pacific region.