This paper reports on a study investigating the potential effect of synchronous and asynchronous text-based computer-mediated communication (CMC) on oral fluency development of second-language (L2) learners. Sixty-three intermediate learners of English were randomly assigned to one of three groups (two experimental groups and one control group),…

The results of this study show that effective questioning skills increase student intellectual moves that, in turn, facilitate the process of knowledge construction in online synchronous discussion (OSD). The open-ended questions elicited multiple perspectives by promoting student participation, while OSD enabled them to share and debate multiple…

In the field of computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL), scripts are designed to support collaboration among distant learners or co-present learners whose interactions are (at least partially) mediated by a computer. The rationale of scripts is to structure collaborative learning processes in order to trigger group interactions that may…

Describes a new synchronous collaborative environment that combines interactive learning and Group Support Systems for computer-mediated collaboration. Illustrates its potential to improve critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills, and describes how teachers' roles are changed. (Author/LRW)

Outlines the interrelationship between telematic learning support and organizational culture of the workplace, defines occupational learning and types of organizationally generated knowledge, identifies concepts of organizational culture, and assesses the argument that telematics can effect changes in culture. Contextualizes these issues in new…

Some research and popularized accounts have claimed computer-mediated communication (CMC) based interactions are free of gender inequality though a growing body of research has documented gender differences in access and practice. This article examines both positions and cultural aspects of gender identities to make clear the centrality of gender…

This article explores student teachers' views of the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in schools. There is limited research literature regarding the perceptions that such students develop in relation to the use of ICT in teaching while observing practice in schools. The paper offers an interpretive analysis of the opinions…

Describes a pilot study at the Open University of the United Kingdom that used a computer mediated communication (CMC) tutor group for a distance learning course. Highlights include the role of the tutor; benefits perceived by students; comparisons with face-to-face tutorials; and tuition issues. (LRW)

Compares the impact of two different computer-mediated communication (CMC) systems, with different prescribed guidelines for use, on the per-person volume of online interchanges in two graduate classes. Hypothesies a relationship between system characteristics, guidelines for use, and the perpetuation of verbal interaction in settings where CMC is…

This paper illustrates a 5-year case study (from 2001 to 2005) regarding a course in educational technology that involved from 100 to 150 student teachers per year for a total of more than 500 trainees. Since the first version of the course, which was entirely based on a face-to-face approach, computer mediated collaborative learning techniques…

Residential universities are increasingly integrating online interaction within courses in the form of synchronous online chats, asynchronous online discussions and access to interactive resources. This article evaluates the educational effectiveness of online chats within a Humanities postgraduate course and a final year Commerce course. We…

Psychology students at the University of Southampton use "skywriting," an e-mail based discussion medium involving tutors and students and focusing on issues arising from course content. This article discusses student participation in skywriting; examines effects of gender, computer attitudes, and computer experience; compares student…

Examines computer-mediated communication (CMC) in higher education, particularly the evaluation of network resources for course-related student communication. Presents case studies of e-mail seminars in Scottish language studies and music, demonstrates the significance of emphasizing process over outcome, and discusses factors affecting CMC usage:…

Describes experiences with computer-mediated communication (CMC) in a postgraduate information systems course at Central Queensland University (Australia). Highlights include a description of a case study discussion via electronic mail; use by off-campus students; examples of CMC interactions; responses to a student survey, including student…