Development of Lifelong Learners through E-Communication Tools

摘要

Computer mediated communication (CMC) skills are essential in today's rapidly changing, technologically focused environment. This study reports student perceptions towards using CMC to improve learning. Twenty-two Tertiary and Further Education students participated in a pilot study that measured student preferences and perceptions of e-communication tools via a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. Three units of varying levels and complexities of e-communication tools were used in the study, which provided perceptions influenced through varying levels of exposure and usage. The research indicated that students perceived most tools as being useful, but not all preferred to use them. A most important finding was students indicated a shared perception and preference for combinations of e-communication tools, and that by promoting the use of these tools, teachers help encourage students to develop as lifelong learners.