Social networks and mobile technologies are transforming learning ecology. In this changing learning environment, we find a variety of new learner needs. The aim of this study is to investigate how to provide scaffolding to the learners in connectivist mobile learning environment: (1) to learn in a networked environment; (2) to manage their…

This extended abstract summarizes the findings of a study that examined nine scholar-focused public electronic discussion groups (EDGs) on BITNET. The roles, rules, and responsibilities of EDG owners are discussed, and several suggestions for enhancing the relationship between the EDG owner and membership are offered. (MES)

Examines commercial communications products that offer electronic mail and special interest forums to determine which would best meet the needs of members of Puppeteers of America and UNIMA (Union International de la Marionette). Services and costs of CompuServe, the WELL (Whole Earth Electronic Link), GEnnie, and Prodigy are described. (MES)

Discussion of computer-mediated communication (CMC) focuses on a study that examined the similarity between computer bulletin board users' perceptions of individuals from whom they received messages and the users' perceptions of the computer itself. Hypotheses tested are explained, mechanomorphism is discussed, and implications of the findings for…

Investigates the effectiveness of a computer-mediated communication system in supplementing traditional instruction in a media law course. Finds mixed results on measures of satisfaction and no significant improvement on exam scores. Notes that the system required more time from the instructor and students. (SR)

Communication via computer networks is becoming more common each day. The differences between computer-mediated communication and face-to-face communication fall into three categories: (1) temporal factors (asynchronous versus synchronous); (2) spatial factors (geographical context and distance); and (3) social factors (participants, their…

Examines the use of chaos theory in modelling time series data generated by computer-mediated communication (CMC). Data generated by CMC discussion groups are examined for the presence of chaotic behavior and to assess the variance which can be accounted for by the deterministic mechanism. (Author/LRW)

Proposes that social constructivist theories of communication technology in organizations that interact with social agents influence technology-related cognition and behavior. Finds that individuals' cognitions of their combined network partners' attitudes and behaviors in using electronic mail predicted the individuals' own attitudes and…

Discusses key themes from research funded by the British Library that investigated electronic communication in academic libraries in the United Kingdom. Highlights the intra-organizational use of e-mail, and discusses the development of effective networked communities. Contains 51 references. (Author/LRW)

Case studies of the linking of four small business centers in technical institutes in Kenya by electronic bulletin boards identified barriers and problems to the implementation of electronic mail: interpersonal and organizational conflicts, technical difficulties, financial and regulatory constraints, and skill and motivation deficits.…

"Active readers" are silent members of telecommunications networks who read but do not contribute. Often derided as lurkers, active readers benefit from their network participation and in turn professionally benefit others. A study, still in progress, is interviewing 20 silent participants of the LabNet community who have posted fewer…

A study examined the distinctive communication phenomena which occur on computer bulletin boards, focusing on the Usenet bulletin board system which is estimated to have over half a million readers worldwide. Most universities and research organizations, all over the world, are capable of exchanging information over computer networks through the…

The use of electronic mail has increased in organizations and other areas where computers are used. Researchers report that there are some major effects on the organization and organizational members in group and interpersonal communication. An extensive literature review examined the technology used in computer networks, electronic mail and…

Discussion of the development of a knowledge navigation system to assist users in searching a large database in a local/wide-area network environment considers the construction of navigation maps, the use of DOS and Windows, connection with electronic mail, and parallel operation with other systems such as BITNET. (28 references) (MES)

Reports on an experiment concerning the effects of time and communication channel (asynchronous computer conferencing versus face-to-face meetings) on the development of interpersonal impressions. Finds that computer-mediated groups gradually increase in impression development to a level approaching that of face-to-face groups. (NH)