Students experiences with collaborative learning in asynchronous computer-supported collaborative learning environments.

Dewiyanti, S., Brand-Gruwel, S., Jochems, W., & Broers, N. (2007). Students experiences with collaborative learning in asynchronous computer-supported collaborative learning environments. Computers in Human Behavior, 23, 496-514.This chapter describes an explorative study carried out to gain response from distance students on their experiences with collaborative learning in asynchronous computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) environments. In addition, this study also attempts to have a good grip of crucial aspects concerning collaborative learning. The study was undertaken among distance learners from the Open University of the Netherlands who were working in groups of four to eleven persons. During and after the course students’ experiences with collaborative learning were measured and after the course also students’ satisfaction with collaborative learning was assessed. The finding revealed that distance learners appreciate the opportunities to work collaboratively. They show positive experiences and are quite satisfied with collaborative learning. This study also explored individual as well as course characteristics that influenced aspects of collaborative learning, and also aspects of collaborative learning that influenced students’ satisfaction. The findings suggested that a group product influences regulation of group processes and group cohesion influences students’ satisfaction with collaborative learning