Collaborative Learning : A Case Study on Information Security and Auditing Management Course

Collaborative Learning is a process of constructing knowledge through interaction with peers. In general, Collaborative learning is an instructional method involving and interaction between learners, it also involving cooperation and interaction between learners with software support. In specific, Collaborative learning is a computer mediated communication as a mode of course delivery. With the tremendous invention of smart devices in recent years, mere lecture is not sufficient to fulfil the needs and expectations of the learners. Incorporating Active Learning Strategies (ALS) with the teaching methodologies is needed in the curriculum. This study aims to explore the activity Collaborative Learning in an elective course among undergraduate students in the Information Technology. The participants included in this study are 176 students in the Information Technology branch from Thiagarajar College of Engineering. Collaborative learning is assessed by four methods of assessment: Individual, Group, Formative and Summative. At the end of the course feedback questionnaire is designed for the Collaborative Learning activity. Two control groups are created: one group with collaborative learning activity implementation and the other group without collaborative learning activity implementation. Three research questions are framed in order to know the implications of the activity. From the assessment and feedback we come to the conclusion “Collaborative Learning” works well. By incorporating Collaborative learning in the curriculum, Course Outcomes are also attained to the maximum level when compared to the previous batch of students.