Technology Supports in CSCL

Abstract

This study examined how technology supports collaborative learning in Computer- Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL). Empirical CSCL studies published between 2005- 2008 were selected from seven leading journals of the field and analyzed in terms of their technology supports. nalyses showed that communication technologies were most popular with asynchronous collaboration being the dominant mode of interaction. lthough CSCL was predominantly supported by communication tools, diverse types of additional technologies (e.g., representational tool, simulations) were used to support both face-to-face and distributed collaboration. Technology supports varied depending on the educational levels, domains, and pedagogical approaches of the learning environments. Based on these analyses, we discuss five distinct ways that technology can support collaborative learning.