This document defines key terms related to collaborative learning, computer-mediated communication, and computer-mediated collaborative learning. It outlines research on CMCL in general education and language education. This research found that CMCL can increase participation, foster interaction, and support the synthesis of information. However, more comprehensive studies are needed that combine different CMC modes and compare CMCL to face-to-face learning.

1. Authentic Online Collaborative Learning A Need for a Comprehensive Study Long V Nguyen Massey University

4. Definitions Cooperative learning Collaborative learning (Lamy & Hampel, 2007; P. M. Nguyen et al., 2005; Oxford, 1997) Enhances cognitive and social skills Purpose Acculturates learners into knowledge community Higher Degree of structure Lower Lower levels/algorithmic Skills Higher levels/synthesis Well-structured Tasks Ill-structured Teacher facilitates, but group is primary Relationships Learners engage with more capable peers who provide assistance and guidance  ================================================ 

6. Definitions Websites Email Blogs Wikis Chat SMS  ===========================================================  Product-oriented Process-oriented CMC Aural Textual Visual Asynchronous Synchronous