Fifty intermediate second language Spanish learners were asked to carry out networked discussions in pairs during their lab time using a synchronous chat program that records all textual entries. Findings suggest that computer mediated communication (CMC) can provide many of the alleged benefits ascribed to the Interaction Hypothesis, but with…

Suggests that out-of-class asynchronous computer conferencing can provide both teacher and students within literature classes with student responses to course materials, transforming courses concerned with developing critical and analytical thinking by heightening student interaction. Outlines the basic methods for establishing such an…

Barriers to peer review of student work can be overcome using computer-mediated systems ranging from customized software to e-mail, multiuser object-oriented systems (MOOs), and Web-based projects. (SK)

Suggests that, as more students gain access to the Internet and learn to write in electronic environments, literacy researchers in computers and composition need to study the discursive practices of these students outside the classroom in relation to the classroom. Explores the emergence of a lesbian, bisexual, and gay youth cyberculture as an…

An introduction to the Internet relevant to the field of social work is provided. Uses for online communication are described. An overview of applications and a sample of findings regarding the effectiveness of Internet use by students and professional communities are presented. A list of Internet resources is provided. (Author/EMK)

Provides a multidimensional framework of collaboration. Reviews research on e-mail and discusses implications for practice and research with respect to collaboration in the schools. Discusses barriers to collaboration, as well as how e-mail might improve collaboration. Discusses possible future uses of the Internet and e-mail with respect to…

Considers the role of interaction in computer-mediated distance education and questions whether there are adequate opportunities for social interaction. Highlights include a review of research studies on interactivity; student ideas; potential research studies; and a post-discussion summary from the International Forum of Educational Technology…

Discusses the use of synchronous computer-mediated communication (commonly known as "chatting") in the foreign language classroom. Examines both pedagogical and technological factors that can affect the language productivity of second-language learners who engage in chatting activities. (SR)

Considers the design of corporate communications for electronic business and discusses the increasing importance of corporate interaction as companies work in virtual environments. Compares sociological and psychological theories of human interaction and relationship formation with organizational interaction theories of corporate relationship…

Discussion of computer-mediated group problem solving focuses on a study of undergraduates that compared the perceptions of participants, the nature of the comments made, and the patterns of communication in face-to-face and computer conferencing groups in terms of problem-solving activities while solving well-structured and ill-structured…

Presents a case study of a virtual professional community for Israeli educators that is built on four "self-serving" principles: restriction, guidance, involvement, and leadership. Describes the four membership phases and their respective principles, and shows how each of these phases contributed to and advanced the individual members…

With the advent of the Internet, ethnography is being used to study the cultural practices of computer-mediated communication. Examines the nature and boundaries of virtual communities, the social presence of participation, social strategies of entry and membership, and technical utilities of data generation. Discusses ethical issues and areas for…

Examines the discursive construction of identity and power in a Japanese online discourse community by focusing on an email list for Japanese professionals in the field of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). Argues that online discourse communities do not diminish hierarchical social relations found in offline discourses but…

Discusses the use of computer mediated communication in distance education to help foster a sense of community among students, encourage group interaction, and keep students and instructors connected. Explains synchronous communication, including chat sessions; and asynchronous communication, including email, listservs, and threaded discussion.…

Explored the feasibility of using Internet Relay Chat (IRC) to facilitate Chinese language teaching and learning. Describes procedures for organizing and conducting chat sessions and discusses the benefits and problems of using IRC. (Author/VWL)