Examining Social Presence and Collective Efficacy on International Online Collaborative Learning

摘要

The purpose of this study is to examine the possibility of an international exchange program using computer-mediated communication. The current study adopted online collaborative learning to utilize computer mediated communication as the instructional method for delivering those experiences. Thus, international exchange programs between Bhutanese and Korean students were conducted through pilot and actual programs. Through the program, students' perceptions on social presence, collective efficacy, and participant satisfaction were measured and analyzed. In the pilot program, students' perceptions of social presence and the collective efficacy of online and offline collaborative groups were researcherd. Online groups were perceived as having similar social presence and collective efficacy as offline groups. In the actual program, the social presence and collective efficacy of Bhutanese and Korean students were measured in pre- and post-program stages. For both groups, the variables increased significantly after the program. Follow-up interviews showed that convenience of using an online communication tool and a successful collaborative experience helped students feel more connected and empowered in terms of and international communication abilities and ICT skills.