Designing collaborative learning through computer support

Introduction Collaborative learning with technology is more than the use of some tool; rather, it requires careful design of not only tools, but also the learning activities and settings in which those tools take place. Computer-supported collaborative learning is distinguished by the use of technology to support collaborative learning, as well as by a history of examining not only the design of technology tools but also by the design of learning environments, including such aspects as curriculum or even more emergent aspects such as facilitated student-driven inquiry. In this chapter, we discuss theories, principles, and techniques for designing computer-supported collaborative learning environments. In the next section, we examine the role of instructional theories and provide several examples. Following that, we examine some of the designed elements of CSCL and the settings in which it may be implemented. Finally, we discuss some of the design models used in creating CSCL environments.