This article discusses the relevance of large-scale mass collaboration for computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) research, adhering to a theoretical perspective that views collective knowledge both as substance and as participatory activity. In an empirical study using the German Wikipedia as a data source, we explored collective…

Tasmania, one of the first locations to have communities connected to the national broadband network (NBN), provided the context within which to ask significant questions about the implications of the NBN for all levels and sectors of education. This paper reports findings from a research project that developed innovative methodology to explore…

In Learning Networks, learners need to share knowledge with others to build knowledge. In particular, when working on complex tasks, they often need to acquire extra cognitive resources from others to process a high task load. However, without support high task load and organizing knowledge sharing themselves might easily overload learners'…

Examines groups of business writing students containing high- and low-apprehensive writers, communicating about writing in both a face-to-face setting and through electronic mail. Concludes that, for both types of writers, collaboratively planning documents on e-mail enhanced the collaborative process. (MM)

Compares the language of business writing students communicating face to face and on a real-time computer network. Finds that during network meetings, participation was more equal, responses more substantive and text specific, and students more willing to offer direction than during face-to-face meetings. Notes more positive evaluations by…

This study investigated the effects of having student writers use a set of networked computers to assist them in their writing lessons. Subjects were 15 students who were designated by their school district as remedial writers because they did not pass a writing competency test in their freshman year. For 10 weeks students participated in the…

Examines different ways in which a range of computer-mediated communication tools can be used in similar classroom settings. Argues that curriculum design for writing classes is inextricably tied to how computer communications will be used in the class. Presents results of a semester-long study of two first-year writing classes using computers.…

Part of a larger ethnographic study, this investigation focused on the literacy development of a college student as he participated in the virtual culture of a computer-networked writing classroom where all instruction and communication occurred through the computer. The student was a member of one of two classes of adult students, ranging in age…

Describes a research project in which elementary students with learning disabilities participate in both individual and cooperative computer-enhanced writing sessions, using three types of topics: free choice, literature based, and fantasy based. Finds the computer-enhanced whole-language writing sessions more instructionally effective than the…

Discusses large-scale electronic networks, scholarly communication, and collaborative research, and describes a study that investigated a process of identifying authors important to information transfer within a scholarly network of collaborating authors. Empirical measures of productivity, grantsmanship, impact, and influence are described, and…