Using Asynchronous Computer Conferencing to Support Learning and Teaching in a Campus-Based HE Context: Beyond E-Moderating

Abstract

This chapter details research into the use of asynchronous computer conferencing (ACC) within a campus-based higher education (HE) environment. Drawing from the literature, the chapter will firstly highlight some of the issues impacting implementation. It will then go on to outline some of the findings from a piece of action research that was conducted over a period of five years with final-year undergraduates studying ethics/professional issues in computing. The main objective of this research was to investigate and subsequently develop Salmon’s (2000) five-stage strategy forimplementing ACC. Finally, the chapter will not only develop the Salmon (2000) model but will also challenge the necessity for e-moderating online discussions within a campus-based HE environment. As such, it will give practitioners a greater understanding of how the learner, the learning task, and a particular technology (ACC) interact within a campus-based HE context and will provide guidelines for developing best practice.