Download - The influence of learner characteristics on degree and type of participation in a CSCL environment
The influence of learner characteristics on degree and type
of participation in a CSCL environment
Prinsen F, Volman M, Terwel J. The Influence of Learner Characteristics on Degree and Type of Participation in a CSCL Environment. British Journal of
Educational Technology [serial online]. November 1, 2007;38(6):1037-1055. Available from: ERIC, Ipswich, MA. Accessed May 11, 2011.
Tiffany Hoefer
What do we hope to learn?
Do all participants profit equally from working with CSCL?
Student characteristics Prior knowledge and attitudes Interaction effects occur between the two
Degree versus Type of Participation
Methodology
Quantitative descriptive, exploratory study
Lesson series applied to groups of 4 students engaged in Knowledge Forum discussion tasks
Amount and type of student participation measured and related to variables
Participants
120 children
◦ Grade 5
◦ Average age – 10
◦ 57 boys; 63 girls
◦ ¼ immigrant parents
◦ ¼ low income
Variables
Control/Independent Variable
Dependent Variable
IQCultural backgroundGenderRelevant skill and
attitudesPopularity
Degree of student participation
Type of student participation
Procedures
Teacher workshop
◦ Three 2-hour sessions
Lesson Plan
◦ 6 lessons
Student Division into Groups
◦ 2 boys/2 girls; 2 high/2 low achievers; 2 pairs with different socio-economic backgrounds
◦ Popularity not taken into account for group pairings
Main Results - degree
Girls contribute more wordsGirls depend on computer skills morePopularity increases participationStudents of immigrant parents participate
lessStudents with strong comprehensive
reading skills participate more
Main Results - type
Boys provide more answers/explanations
Girls ask more questions
Boys disagree more
Girls show more acceptance
Drawbacks
Did not assess learning gain
Study did not allow for students to engage in different roles with CSCL
Positive
Insight into factors affecting CSCL
Fills gaps in previous literature
Compares degree and type of participation
Ties to theoretical background
Overview
Clear and straightforward
Literature review supports further research and good link to theories
Useful for educators
Leads to further research regarding learning gain