"Through a glass, darkly" : exploring student community in electronic learning environments
Date
1998
Authors
Clarke, Karen Dawn
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Abstract
This study explores the nature of students' electronic interactions in onĀline courses and the extent to which those interactions contribute to a sense of "community" among learners.
A qualitative research methodology was used to analyze data collected from participants who completed a questionnaire and who subsequently engaged in electronic mail dialogues with the researcher regarding their on-line learning experiences. All data were collected electronically.
Study findings point to the unique nature of computer-mediated communication (CMC) and to its role in developing a sense of "community" among electronic learners. Most participants agreed that feeling part of a community contributed to their learning.