Hats for House Elves: Connected Learning and Civic Engagement in Hogwarts at Ravelry

BY: Rachel Cody Pfister

This case report presents and discusses how the Hogwarts at Ravelry community functions as a connected learning environment. It lays out the background of the case by situating it in the context of the rich social history of fiber crafting, explaining the origins and design of the parent site of Ravelry.com, and explaining the history and design of the Hogwarts at Ravelry group. It explains the methods used to carry out the research. It describes and analyzes the features of the Hogwarts at Ravelry group that align with the connected learning principles of being an interest-powered, peer-supported, and academically-oriented site that has a shared purpose, emphasis on production, and is openly networked. And, it discusses how Hogwarts at Ravelry, as a connected learning environment, provides gateway opportunities for members to connect their interests with outside opportunities for community involvement and civic action.

Article available in PDF format. 

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