Computer mediated communication in distance education

S. D. Gregor*, E. F. Cuskelly

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

27 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Abstract  This paper describes experiences with computer mediated communication (CMC) in a postgraduate information systems module over two successive years. CMC was introduced primarily for pedagogical reasons, although a further aim was to carry out an exploratory investigation into factors affecting its successful adoption and the benefits to students. Students participated in a case study discussion through a bulletin board. Student participation, though not compulsory, was high at 82%. Over 80% of students surveyed thought their experience with electronic mail assisted learning, that the case study discussion was more useful than a conventional assignment, that the instructor seemed more accessible and that further use of electronic mail in their studies was desirable. Problems encountered included difficulties in learning to use the communications software and inadequacies in documentation. Social interaction amongst students and between students and the instructor was relatively low. Recommendations are that future work should concentrate on the quality of documentation and technical support, the ease of use of software chosen and the integration of technology across the organization.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)168-181
Number of pages14
JournalJournal of Computer Assisted Learning
Volume10
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 1994
Externally publishedYes

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