Elements of Distance Education Diffusion

Collaborative Interaction

Collaborative interactions are a form of two way communication (Walden University, 2008).  In this era of electronic communication, collaboration has evolved from written letters to wired communication (telephone) to email and chatting to cell phone talk and text collaboration. We are also experiencing collaborative interactions in the digital classroom (online interface/blended learning environment).

Some of the online tools used for collaboration are electronic whiteboards, email, chat rooms, online discussion forums, and even social networking sites like ©Facebook and ©Twitter.  Skype is also another innovation that is catching on in the online learning arena.

Reference

Laureate Education, Inc. (2008).  Diffusion and Integration of Technology in Education.  Baltimore: Author.