Using collaborative learning technologies can help facilitate more effective group work among students. Technologies allow students to work asynchronously through tools like email, forums, and wikis, which some students prefer over face-to-face meetings. Synchronous tools also exist for real-time collaboration through chat, voice, screen sharing, and group editing apps. There are five major categories of digital platforms that support various collaborative functions, including course management systems, social networks, wikis, virtual meeting spaces, and group editing apps.