Scaffolding Group Learning in a Collaborative Networked Environment

Abstract

Scaffolding students in a collaborative networked learning environment requires different instructional methods than in a traditional home or classroom setting. The goal of this research is to understand computer-mediated collaboration in an instructional setting in order to create an effective computer-mediated collaboration tool. We identify ways to support collaboration by examining the interaction and strategies employed by a peer tutor and teacher and between peers working in our collaborative learning environment. We found that supporting collaboration in an electronic setting requires diagnosing impasses, facilitating problem-solving interaction, and suggesting ways to divide the problem into sub-tasks.