A Peer Learning Framework for Enhancing Students' Learning Experiences in Online Environments

Online peer learning is increasingly important for higher education institutions. However, there are limited guidelines on how best to develop and implement peer learning activities online; how to link these activities to the selection of appropriate technologies to support peer learning; and, how best to customize individual delivery and assessment to enhance student learning experiences. This paper presents a peer learning framework designed to enhance students' learning experiences in online environments. The framework highlights the nature and importance of the interdependencies amongst interaction, communication and motivation on students' learning experience. It identifies student-related factors and their influence on peer learning activities. It highlights the impact and role of the teaching team on peer learning activities, learning resources and the learning environment. It also explains how to approach understanding the role and impact of different technology affordances and their integration into effective online peer learning activities that optimize student learning experiences.