Computer Supported Collaborative Learning and Adult Learners in Online Education: The Role of Collaborative Scripting

• In Event: Collaboration in Online Learning

Abstract

Despite the pedagogical advantages of collaborative learning, anonymity in online settings often leads to minimal student interaction. Scaffolding students through well-defined Collaborative scripts, a Computer Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) tool can structure interactions and enhance the effectiveness of collaborative learning. This study uses an experimental design and mix-methods approach to analyze the effect of script treatment on the quantity (measured by average word count and frequency of replies) and quality (measured by rubric and content analysis) of interactions. Script treatment was given to one of the two online sections (n=42) keeping other factors like subject, modality, instructor, and semester controlled. The results show that the quantity and quality of interactions and overall effectiveness of collaboration was better with script treatment.

Authors

• Radhika Rajesh Jha, University at Albany - SUNY

• Peter Shea, University at Albany - SUNY