This paper discusses the use of videoconferencing as a tool to enhance collaboration amongst online learners in an open learning context. We present quantitative data from a longitudinal study of naturalistic videoconferencing interactions held via the FM videoconference tool, indicating its global use. The case study presented is analysed…

Discusses collaborative projects developed between different teachers using online networks that allow students to create or write for an audience. Topics include gathering and sharing information online, cooperating in an integrated study, developing a final project, generating your own project, and joining an existing project. (LRW)

It is assumed that cooperative learning continuously constructs and extends the shared knowledge of a group of learners with respect to a specific learning domain. Experiences with Computer-Supported Collaborative/Cooperative Learning (CSCL) environments indicate that an explicit representation of the shared knowledge is helpful with regard to two…

This paper reports on the Curry CONNECT project at the University of Virginia, a Web-based discussion group that links preservice teachers with graduate inservice teachers and apprenticing administrators. Using content, survey, and interview data collected from the discussion postings and student feedback, a qualitative analysis is presented,…

Notes that Interdisciplinary Studies Program faculty at Wayne State University devised courses and assignments using computer conferencing to create a collaborative, democratic, and nonauthoritarian learning community. Discusses an assignment based on the film "Grand Canyon" that encouraged students to take on roles of their racial and…

Describes local networking approaches that encourage student interaction and better information access for the school community, while maintaining security measures. Discusses computer-supported collaborative work, simultaneous online discussion, educator support and curriculum development, courses on the Internet, and implementation. (AEF)

An interdisciplinary project was developed in which faculty and students learned to use writing in new and innovative ways. The 3-year project focused on five problems in the teaching and practice of college writing: the negative attitude of faculty towards the teaching of writing; the negative attitude of students towards writing; the relative…

This paper argues for the inclusion of computer-based writing assignments in literature and writing courses, citing as objectives for students the fostering of collaboration; the cultivation of scholarly ideals; and the exploration of issues, ideas, and literature from varying perspectives. It explains how the instructor developed assignments…

This book offers suggestions for developing well-planned and effective computer-mediated distance learning. Part 1 lays the foundation for a distance education framework. Chapter 1 explores issues involved in teaching and learning when learning moves into the online environment. Chapter 2 looks at the essence of the framework--the importance of…

In training courses for writing tutors, an electronic mail forum is a particularly useful writing-to-learn activity because it gives tutors-in-training important experience with the collaborative intellectual processes at the heart of writing centers. In one particular class for tutors at Marquette University, Wisconsin, the assignment for the…

Asserts that teachers have the technological tools to help students become involved in their own learning. Maintains that geographic instruction can be improved by using one computer or an entire bank of computers in the classroom. Describes and recommends computer software programs and online information services. (CFR)

This paper describes the use of collaborative writing software and simultaneous electronic chats in an English as a Second Language (ESL) class. Most ESL students have little experience using word processing software, and most have no keyboarding experience. Using electronic chat sessions assists ESL students with sentence construction, vocabulary…

A practicum was designed to interest and motivate students to participate in social studies, an area in which lack of motivation has caused many elementary students to do poorly. An active learning, cooperative, and collaborative approach to social studies was taken with a class of 30 fourth graders. Through cooperative learning, simulated…

Maintains that the use of electronic mail to link students from other states and nations is an effective way to heighten student interest and improve instruction. Describes electronic pen pal programs linking students in New Zealand, England, and Kansas. (CFR)

Contributors discuss the top ten technologies that allow for thinking in new and innovative ways about the concept of "school": virtual learning; wireless networking; collaboration tools; digital video; Application Service Providers; handheld devices; optical networking; videoconferencing; XML; and simulations. (AEF)