Digital Learning Paths in Unstructured Learning Environments

Abstract

This paper examines digital learning paths (LP) in unstructured learning environments and how such learning paths can be implemented in project-based learning (PBL) ap-proaches. The analysis is based on two group talks with five to six active participants and individual interviews with three candidates for the Doctor of Business Administration programme at Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences and the Head of the Programme. The comparison of the literature and the first results of the data collection has shown a discrepancy in PBL-specific characteristics that the existing LP models could not address. The outcome of this qualitative data collection resulted in a set of additional requirements an LP should fulfil to support PBL endeavours. By applying design science research, an artefact possessing these requirements, based on existing characteristics, was created to provide a comprehensive project management dashboard (CPMD). The candidates in-volved in the group talks and interviews, as well as the Head of the Programme, tested the implemented model and gave feedback, closing the cycle. This feedback showed ac-ceptance and proved the functionality of the features. The results, therefore, indicate that an LP can be implemented in PBL environments if PBL-specific requirements are ad-hered to.