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Collaborative learning is a strategy that can aid learners to achieve effective learning (Dewiyanti, Brand-Gruwel, Jochems, & Broers, 2007; Hilke, 1990). It is not a new instructional concept or method. From as early as 1920, many researchers have proposed to use collaborative learning to enhance learning effectiveness (Diler, 2008; McConnell, 2005). Collaborative learning refers to a pre-designed learning situation where students are divided into multiple groups, with each group consisting of members with heterogeneous attributes, and then assigned tasks that they need to accomplish through mutual cooperation, assistance, dependence, and sharing of resources (Slavin, 1990). Through group cooperation, students can develop not only a closer relationship but also better communication skills and high-level reflective capabilities (Johnson & Johnson, 1994). With the advancement of computer technologies and increasing prevalence of the Internet, collaborative learning is no longer confined to face-to-face classrooms (Georgia & Symeon, 2010). According to McConnell (2005), the place of identity, control, ontological security, and guilt in e-learning groups were the four critical factors for effective learning among networked learning groups and communities. Now, it can be performed in a virtual environment built on a global network. This extension of collaborative learning, realized through integration of technologies, is called Computer Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL).
In addition to learner-centeredness, CSCL stresses that learners play an active role in the cognitive process, while teachers are only supporters (Francesca, Stefania, & Donatella, 2007). Hence, learners should be equipped with prerequisite knowledge before engaging in learning, and their metacognition is important in the learning process (Hanna, 2005). In CSCL, teachers should switch their role from a deliverer of knowledge to a promoter of knowledge construction and monitoring. They do not give answers directly. Instead, they guide learners to interact with members in the group to jointly accomplish given tasks and finally assess the performance of each group or member (Georgia & Symeon, 2010). Through rapid development of the Internet, the interactive models on the Internet have evolved from one-way delivery of information to multi-way communications where user centeredness, sharing, and participation are emphasized (Diler, 2008).
Many existing studies on CSCL hold a positive view of its value, suggesting that CSCL can help learners to (a) construct knowledge, (b) develop creativity, (c) judge messages, (d) reorganize independent thinking, (e) enhance problem-solving skills, and (f) expand learning methods and domains through observation of peers’ opinions and brainstorming with them (Johnson, Johnson, & Holubec, 1993). However, some researchers have also pointed out that because group achievement equals individual achievement in CSCL, some learners may be unproductive in the collaborative learning process and simply take advantage of others’ efforts like taking a free ride (Tomlinson & Henderson, 1995). In such occasions, the load of learning will fall on more competent members or those whose parents can lend a hand. If any member feels that their sharing of the load is unfair and has reduced motivation for learning, the performance of the entire group may be reduced. There are always shy members in any group. Their inability to cope with pressure may result in a fear for speaking up in class and inactivity in group interactions, which will indirectly make it hard for teachers to objectively assess students’ individual performance (Johnson, Johnson, & Holubec, 1993).