Development and Assessment of CSCL System for Large Classrooms Using Collaborative Script

摘要

In the area of Computer Supporter Collaborative Learning (CSCL) research, scripting collaborative learning is a relatively new but promising approach to promote learning. The term scripting is used to describe ways of prescribing relevant elements for collaborative interaction, such as group formation, roles, learning activities, sequence of learning activities. Many studies have shown that free collaboration without explicit scaffolding rarely produces effective interaction and that the script can be one of the most effective scaffoldings. Basing on reciprocal learning method, we have designed a script which allows students to create questions and answer them mutually. To implement this script for large classrooms, we have developed a CSCL system which has two important functions: automated group formation function that can form groups on the fly, based on students' personal traits, and chat function by which students can discuss each other within their groupe. For the evaluation, we have conducted an experiment with some 300 students in a large classroom to evaluate our system and analyze interactions in detail during each sequence of learning activities. Based on the assessment result, the learners felt encouraged to understand better about learning task. At the same time, it became clear that the quality of discussion on chat affects reciprocal question posing. As well, it was indicated that group size and knowledge level of leader or other members affect the process of reciprocal actions and activities at some degree.