Computer support in collaborative learning
Collaborative learning has potential benefits for education. Meanwhile, collaborative learning also has a number of challenges such as in coordinating and monitoring the collaborative learning process. Can computers play certain roles in addressing these challenges? The computer as a computing tool is not good at thinking or problem solving. But it is a fast-speed and powerful tool for calculating, storing and retrieving information, and also for communication. In terms of supporting collaborative learning or addressing the challenges in collaborative learning, the computer is good at the following aspects:
What is computer supported collaborative learning (CSCL)? CSCL is an interdisciplinary research field focusing on how collaborative learning, supported by technology, can enhance peer interaction and work in groups, and how collaboration and technology facilitate sharing and distributing knowledge and expertise among community members (Lipponen, Hakkarainen & Paavola, 2004). CSCL is also a field of study centrally concerned with meaning and the practices of meaning-making in the context of joint activity, and the ways in which these practices are mediated through designed artifacts (Stahl, Koschmann, & Suthers, 2006). Refer to the following article for the concept of CSCL. Download the file ![]()
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Many existing ICT tools can be used to support collaborative learning. Click on the following link and explore the tools listed in the category of 'collaborative learning'. You may also add tools that are not listed on the trello web site.
https://trello.com/b/GjqZJYyT/ict-tools Share a specific tool that is particularly useful for collaborative learning in your teaching context in the following comments area.
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