Communication On-Line:

 

Using Chat in On-Line Courses

 

 

Dody Welsh-Parris

 

 

1.     What are the advantages of using a chat for communication in a class that doesnít meet face to face, and how could you incorporate into your on line syllabus.

 

Synchronous conversations can provide:

 

ÿ      opportunities for personal expression, and a sense of individuality that might be missing from bulletin board discussions;

 

ÿ      chats may be conducive to brainstorming sessions;

 

ÿ      immediate gratification for students;

 

ÿ      a good change of pace;

 

ÿ      facilitation of mall group work;

 

ÿ      electronic office hours;

 

ÿ      a familiar setting for younger students;

 

ÿ      Immediate gratification and quick response.

 

2.     What are some of the limitations or difficulties that you encountered in using what?

 

ÿ      The lack of formality may lead to chaos.Ý

 

ÿ      People who type quickly and accurately have an advantage

 

ÿ      Too many people in the chat room make it hard to keep track.

 

ÿ      People can easily get off task.

 

ÿ      It may be hard for students to find mutually agreeable times

 

ÿ      It may be too liberating ñ people may say things they regret.

 

ÿ      International use may be expensive

 

3.     What can we do, as on line instructors, to take advantage of the benefits and limit the weaknesses?

 

ÿ      Establish expectations of behavior, purpose, and participation.Ý These may include ground rules, moderators, ìnetiquette,î length of response, turn taking, and so forth.

 

ÿ      Make chat sessions optional, and provide either a summary or a transcriptÝ (which may need to be edited) for those who are unable to make it.

 

ÿ      Hold multiple chat sessions.

 

ÿ      Keep chat groups small.

 

ÿ      Consider the implications of anonymity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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