Metaphors and online learning

The aim of this chapter is to highlight the role that metaphors and figurative language may play in virtual learning environments that are based on written communication. In these contexts they may satisfy cognitive, emotional and affective needs of learning. Research results achieved so far show that metaphors, establishing meaningful analogies among different domains, may deeply affect conceptual reorganization and thus knowledge enhancement. Moreover, metaphors successfully support the expression of the affective domain and the building of a common identity; at the same time they give concreteness and familiarity to the immateriality of the virtual spaces. By presenting results gathered in two research studies here reported, the chapter focuses in particular on the role that metaphors may play in supporting social presence and collaborative knowledge building in online learning experiences.