MoodlePeers: Factors Relevant in Learning Group Formation for Improved Learning Outcomes, Satisfaction and Commitment in E-Learning Scenarios Using GroupAL

High-scale and pure online learning scenarios (like MOOCs) as well as blended-learning scenarios offer great possibilities to optimize the composition of learning groups working together on the assigned (or selected) tasks. While the benefits and importance of peer learning for deep learning and improvement of e.g. problem-solving competency and social skills are indisputable, little evidences exist about the relevant factors for group formation and their combination to optimize the learning outcome for all participants (in all groups). Based on the GroupAL algorithm, MoodlePeers proposes an plugin solution for Moodle. Evaluated in a four-week online university mathematics preparation cours…