Observed interaction between students using computers

Abstract

This study was conducted to see what cognitive and social skills and strategies were employed by pairs of students as they used a computer adventure game The games used in the study were “Where in the World is Carmen Saudi ego? ” (Broderbund) and “Dinosaur Discovery ” (Jacaranda) One male and one female pair of year five students were assigned to each game
Grounded Theory was selected as the methodology as it enabled categorization of the skills and strategies to emerge from the data without locking the researcher into previously identified categories.
It was found in this study, and supported in other research, that what occurs between the students during a session with the computer depends on the nature of the task, the students involved, the type and amount of training provided and the classroom conditions under which the activity is conducted
The implications from the study are: that under most circumstances it is desireable for students to work in pairs with a computer to enable interaction to occur, students may require some training in the cognitive skills necessary for the software being used, training students to work cooperatively before placing them in groups is important, and integrating the computer into the classroom environment may encourage the use of other desired skills and strategies.

Date of Award	1995
Original language	English
Supervisor	Lawrie Kendall (Supervisor)