A virtual class example in support of collaborative distance learning

Abstract

The adaptation of emerging technology to distance education has led to the usage of synchronous and asynchronous communication tools such as e-mail, video conferencing and virtual class to support collaborative distance learning. This chapter focuses on using virtual classrooms in collaborative distance learning. A case studywas conducted to investigate the performance and views of the students in collaborative distance learning using a virtual class. Ten computer engineering students who enrolled in an internetbased distance course participated in the study. Six of the students were male and four were female. The students collaborated in developing real-life software projects by performing the following stages: planning a project proposal, analyzing, designing, developing and testing the software. The students also presented their project proposal and plan, analysis and design reports, and their software products in the virtual class. In addition, the students had discussions on the projects, gave each other their opinions, and the instructor monitored and gave feedback during the virtual class sessions. The performance assessment included both the process and products of the collaborative distance learning. The results of the study showed that the students' performance was high in developing software projects. However, some groups had problems on collaborative work and time management. All the students emphasized the positive acquisitions of collaborative distance learning such as gaining knowledge and skills for developing software projects by scaffolding of the instructor, and getting feedback from their peers and the instructor during discussions in the virtual class sessions. © 2011 Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved. © 2014 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.