Using Collaborative Web Sites to Overcome Barriers to Collaboration in Science and Engineering

摘要

Initial studies of how Collaborative Web Sites or CoWebs might enhance knowledge transfer between science and engineering classes showed an apparent barrier to student collaboration. This barrier appeared to be related to the culture of many engineering students. Here we investigate how projects that provide a perceived benefit from collaboration may be implemented in engineering classes using the CoWeb. Important results from this investigation suggest collaboration can occur, but some activity to drive the student interaction on the CoWeb must take place. This activity must provide the appropriate grading structure such that learning from collaboration is not penalized and active participation is rewarded. It appears that students with an "Active" learning style, which may be common among engineers, are inclined toward collaboration. The results also suggest that projects involving analysis of realistic data, that is also relevant to the student, might better motivate students.