“You Never Run Out of Stamps” Electronic Communication in Field Experiences

Abstract

This study sought to determine the effects of electronic communication (i.e., e-mail and listserv communication) among triads of student teachers, college supervisors, and cooperating teachers. Twenty-one volunteer participants began as the initial cohort: five college supervisors, eight cooperating teachers, and eight preservice teachers. Each participant had a portable computer equipped with a modem. Four data sets were used: 1) individual self-assessments; 2) printouts of all e-mail communication related to the project; 3) printouts of all listserv responses; and 4) within-triad and between-triad group assessments. Participants' self-reporting of computer proficiency showed significant differences. The nature of participants' e-mail messages (e.g., lesson plan discussions) and listserv responses are discussed in relation to their overall evaluation of this opportunity.