Positive Impact of Computer Conferencing in Distance Education

Abstract

A number of studies have examined the dynamics and style of communication adopted in computer conferencing in distance education (Mason, 1993). Computer conferencing by higher education institutions offering distance education courses has expanded rapidly since 1987. Lately computer conferencing has developed in fame as a vehicle of distance education. While protecting the opportunity related with asynchronous communication and giving wide access to low-end innovation users, computer conferencing enables students and instructors to take part in group learning and associate 'many-to-many' (Harasim, 1989). Much has already been written on the subject of computer conferencing in support of educational processes, in particular distance education (DE). Using unstructured interviews and observations at adult students' homes or worksites, the study investigated adult student perspectives of distance study by computer conferencing. The focal finding of this investigation was that computer conferencing can bolster a scope of learning situations, from teacher-led symposium to symposium to a student-centered community workshop. In addition, adults actively engaged in social relationships outside their distance studies which sustain their educational pursuits. The students provided insights into aspects of the on?line environment: as synchronicity, interactivity, textual communications, and collaboration.