Investigation of group dynamics and interactions in synchronous networked learning _计算机网络论文.docVIP

Investigation of group dynamics and interactions in synchronous networked learning _计算机网络论文 Investigation of group dynamics and interactions in synchronous networked learning _计算机网络论文 Abstact Studies of effective learning and teaching on information highway focus on technological application. (McMahon, Gantz amp Greenberg, 1995 Treadwell, Leach, Kellar et al., 1998) Few researches emphasize on group interaction in learning process. Criticism against the learning concludes with insufficient interaction while other studies defense it creates learning community across geographic and time boundaries. (Saye, 1998 Shrivastava, 1999) The aim of this paper is to examine the effectiveness of group dynamics in synchronous networked learning. The pilot study used in this paper is a joint project in which two groups of students attend engineering drawing classes at two different locations. One of the groups is live teaching while the audio and video signals are transmitted to the other group simultaneously through intranet. The result expects multi-dimensional interaction enriches learning in networked environments. It also implies that the extension of this learning mode will support a new concept of virtual learning area networks (VLAN) that may globalise learning and teaching in future. Keywords synchronous networked learning, virtual learning area network, classroom communication, interactivity, peer group dynamics and peer-to-peer interaction 1. Introduction Traditional classroom mode is not enough for the ‘informationalised’ community to pursue learning. (Tiffin and Rajasingham, 1995) Studies on new learning modes focus on the advancement of information technology for delivering learning in dynamic and flexible environment. (Mcgreal, 1998 Tuathail and McCormack, 1998) Internet-based, Web-based or network-based learning and teaching is articulated as an effective mode for many educators while different commercial or individual-initiated systems/platforms claim to faci