This paper explores sense of belonging as a key concept of technology-enhanced learning environments. Educational technologies have long focused on content delivery and cognitive automation, often neglecting the emotional and social dimensions critical to learning. We argue this has led to digital environments that increase connectivity but lack meaningful connection, shared purpose, and community Our proposal puts sense of belonging as a key and foundational element for effective learning. We justify this direction by highlighting the psychological and pedagogical benefits of belonging. Literature indicates that a strong sense of belonging can enhance motivation, engagement, and well-being, leading to better educational outcomes. Moreover, technologies that foster belonging can create more supportive learning environments, addressing issues of isolation and disengagement in the real world. We will introduce Ser+, a digital platform that prioritises real-world human connections and facilitates skills development while enhancing educational communities’ social fabric. With this approach, we intend to contribute to the discussion of new ways to think about the implementation of digital tools in education, paving the way for more authentic, connected, empathetic and real learning experiences.

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Reimagining TEL - Redesigning Technology for the Promotion of Students’ Sense of Belonging

  • Carlos Santos,
  • Luis Pedro,
  • Mónica Aresta,
  • Ana Raquel Carvalho

摘要

This paper explores sense of belonging as a key concept of technology-enhanced learning environments. Educational technologies have long focused on content delivery and cognitive automation, often neglecting the emotional and social dimensions critical to learning. We argue this has led to digital environments that increase connectivity but lack meaningful connection, shared purpose, and community Our proposal puts sense of belonging as a key and foundational element for effective learning. We justify this direction by highlighting the psychological and pedagogical benefits of belonging. Literature indicates that a strong sense of belonging can enhance motivation, engagement, and well-being, leading to better educational outcomes. Moreover, technologies that foster belonging can create more supportive learning environments, addressing issues of isolation and disengagement in the real world. We will introduce Ser+, a digital platform that prioritises real-world human connections and facilitates skills development while enhancing educational communities’ social fabric. With this approach, we intend to contribute to the discussion of new ways to think about the implementation of digital tools in education, paving the way for more authentic, connected, empathetic and real learning experiences.