Exploring collaborative learning in higher education through social networks: A Phenomenological Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15359/ree.30-2.21372Keywords:
Collaborative learning, higher education, social media, phenomenological study, SDG 4, quality educationAbstract
Objective. Social media are platforms have potential for the education of young university students; however, their academic use is overshadowed by their primary use for leisure and entertainment purposes. This research was conducted to understand perceptions of the use of social media for collaborative learning among university students at a higher education institution in southern Sonora, Mexico. Methodology. The study was qualitative and phenomenological, involving 35 students from a public university. Twenty-five semi-structured interviews and one focus group were conducted. Content analysis was used to interpret the testimonies of the participants. Results. Students perceive that SS facilitate communication and information exchange, which benefits collaborative learning. Conclusion. Collaborative learning and the use of social media can be effective tools for improving education, since collaborative learning is possible through the union of two or more people, and social media can facilitate the construction of learning and generate spaces for feedback. However, it is necessary to investigate the drawbacks and effective strategies for promoting collaboration through social media.
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