Can VLEs be PLEs?

For a learning environment to be personalized, it should provide the user with features that enable him to manage his learning. It should allow the user to creatively think and participate,as well as give and receive feedback.

VLEs can be personalized by giving each learner and individual learning space. The learner will have an account on the system, where he can play around with the interface to give it a a more 'personal' look. He can upload his work and post interesting information that he would like to share with his colleagues. VLEs can help students track their own progress, by giving them feedback as to how far they are achieving and keeping up with their weekly schedule. Students can be able to look at other student's profile and compare themselves with others who may share common goals. VLEs can provide for student collaboration by the use of working group spaces and chatrooms.

Along with other features, VLEs can provide PLEs. The student must be guided to the features provided by the VLE, and how he can manage the environment for his own benefit.