Abstract
Embroidery has been a part of our social fabric for hundreds of years. It has been a medium for historical commentary; for homage to ceremonial and religious occasion; for expression of creativity; for utilitarian purposes; or simply for leisure activity and social contact. The techniques of embroidery have been, almost, unaffected by mechanisation and changes in technology. The purpose of this research presented here was to study the learning and sharing embroidery in the context of the modern technology of the Internet, and to observe the community of practice of embroiderers as they emerged from a virtual learning experience. The research was conducted as a case study of a purpose built virtual learning environment (VLE). The environment consisted of an embroidery lesson, together with synchronous and asynchronous online communication facilities used to encourage the emergence of a community of practice of embroiderers. The common goal of the participants was the creation of an embroidered sampler through an online learning experience. This paper presents the procedure and the discussion of the development of the VLE. In addition, the paper details the conceptual model, based on relevant literature for adult learners that underpins the development of the VLE.