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.
ÿ