"- What is a VLE and how can it be used?
- What are the potential benefits and pitfalls of using a VLE?
- is there a particular pedagogical approach that is necessary to make effective use of a VLE?"
A personal learning environment is personal in the sense that WHAT is learned has to be based on what interests the learner.
the learner should have some ability to select the tools that work best for his/her learning style and needs. The learner should also have maximum flexibility in how he/she uses those tools.
there has to be an organizational culture of learning
People have to feel supported and nurtured as they try out new tools and ways of doing things
having access to the tools of PLEs
PLE isn't strictly about online learning. It also includes face-to-face interaction, reading real-world books and magazines, going to conferences, engaging in activities, writing in journals, etc.
I see PLEs as a strategy of empowerment that allows staff to become more self-directed in their learning.
Great collection of publications (sienctific paper, blog articles, wiki pages, presentations) related to Personal Learning Environments from Ilona Buchem.