Learning through collaborative design: a learning strategy on the Internet

In this paper we first identify important issues and challenges encountered in Web-based constructive learning, especially in the domain of science and engineering education. We then summarize important factors mentioned in previous constructive epistemology and pedagogy and propose four goals for learning: active learning, learning via simulation, interactive and inter-creative learning, and accumulative learning, called the ASIA principles together. After setting the goals we introduce a framework and guidelines of an instruction strategy that can explore the niches provided by an Internet-based learning environment. The proposed strategy is learning through collaborative design that is a way of learning by doing on the Web. We emphasize collaboration and creativity during the learning process.