Abstract
Computer mediated communication (CMC) provides a way of incorporating participant interaction into online environments. Use of such features as discussion forums and chats enhance collaborative work and learning. For many, however, CMC may be an unfamiliar medium. To ensure a successful CMC event, it is essential to adequately prepare participants for CMC. A proposed four step model prepares participants for CMC. The four steps include conducting a needs and population analysis, providing an orientation before the event and shortly after the event begins, and providing continuing support.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Computer Mediated Communication (CMC): Design that incorporates synchronous and asynchronous online communication that promotes interaction among participants. Such features include discussion forums and online chat features.
Needs Assessment: An analysis of the needs and desires of a target audience. Methods of conducting a needs assessment include survey questionnaires, focus groups, and personal interviews.
Asynchronous: Online communication that does occur at the same time.
Avatar: A computer-generated representation of an online participant commonly found in virtual reality environments.
Asynchronous: Online communication that does occur at the same time.
Needs Assessment: An analysis of the needs and desires of a target audience. Methods of conducting a needs assessment include survey questionnaires, focus groups, and personal interviews.
Population Analysis: An analysis of a targeted audience focusing on its attributes, abilities, and feelings.
Synchronous: Online communication that occurs among participants simultaneously.
Computer Mediated Communication (CMC): Design that incorporates synchronous and asynchronous online communication that promotes interaction among participants. Such features include discussion forums and online chat features.
Population Analysis: An analysis of a targeted audience focusing on its attributes, abilities, and feelings.
Avatar: A computer-generated representation of an online participant commonly found in virtual reality environments.
Open Source: Programs that are developed with an open license and distributed without cost. Upgrades to programs and support are often provided by the user community.
Synchronous: Online communication that occurs among participants simultaneously.
Open Source: Programs that are developed with an open license and distributed without cost. Upgrades to programs and support are often provided by the user community.