ERIC Number: EJ952080
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2010
Pages: 23
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0735-6331
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Strategies for Instructors on How to Improve Online Groupwork
Koh, Myung Hwa; Barbour, Michael; Hill, Janette R.
Journal of Educational Computing Research, v43 n2 p183-205 2010
Online groupwork is becoming an increasingly popular instructional strategy. Although researchers have questioned the benefits of groupwork in online learning environments, little empirical research has examined the challenges it presents. The purpose of this study was to investigate the experience of students involved in online groupwork to find strategies that could be implemented to assist students in completing online groupwork. The findings indicated that the strategies for the instructors included two areas: course design and groupwork process. The course design strategies include 1) providing multiple communication methods; 2) providing an overall plan for the class; 3) preparing for technology; and 4) building virtual team skills. The groupwork process strategies include 1) assisting group formation; 2) building a sense of connection; 3) being involved in group processes; and 4) evaluating group processes. Finally, this study suggested future research is needed in the conditions that facilitate effective group composition. (Contains 2 tables and 1 figure.)
Descriptors: Electronic Learning, Educational Strategies, Online Courses, Group Dynamics, Teachers, Researchers, Educational Environment, Educational Technology, Distance Education, Interpersonal Relationship, Feedback (Response), Case Studies, Evaluation, Peer Evaluation, Peer Groups, Accountability, Graduate Students, Higher Education
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Audience: Teachers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A