Knowledge community: Moving beyond conventional learning management systems

Abstract

In this paper, we present a platform called Knowledge Community (K-Comm) which provides a higher level of engagement for student learning on the web. This platform is a knowledge-based social network which allows users to contribute and seek information. Users can ask questions or answer questions asked by other members. K-Comm also captures user profile, and based on a user's participation, identifies his/her area of interest and expertise. The platform is built around the philosophy that each individual is an expert in their own area and has the potential to share and contribute. K-Comm is driven by community effort and being a social network, students are more willing to participate; but unlike other social networks, K-Comm does not distract, instead, it encourages knowledge sharing and contribution.