The interpersonal interaction in computer supported collaborative learning environment

The theory of learning constructivism indicates that, the success of collaborative learning depends on whether the interpersonal interaction among the group members is adequate. With the strong interactive function, the web provides the effective communication platform for distance learners to learn collaboratively. However, the positive benefits cannot happen automatically in a virtual collaborative learning environment, which call for sound instructional design. This paper focuses on the interpersonal interaction in collaborative learning process. Based on the web-based collaborative learning (Web CL) platform which was designed and implemented by the School of Online Learning of Renmin University of China (CMR), we selected the discussion forum of the undergraduate web course “Dream of the Red Chamber” as the case study and the students who chose the course and the instructor of the course as the respondents. We investigate the “interactive factors” which we assumed may influence the students’ interaction performance, then specifically evaluate the current situation of the “interactive factors” in the discussion forum and identify the weaknesses, finally put forward the enhancing strategies referring to these weaknesses.