Structured Collaboration in e-Learning

In this paper we explore the use of structured synchronous collaboration in e-Learning. Although there is much interest recently on integrating collaboration tools in e-Learning environments, not much has been mentioned about the effects of structured versus unstructured collaboration. Here, through a simple prototype, we find that potential users of e-Learning platforms really liked the integration of collaboration tools in the environment and more specifically, liked the structured collaboration. Whether or not users liking the structured collaboration can lead to increased motivation to use the platform, or ultimately lead to increased learning, are still left as open questions. However, the answers appear to be “yes” and “yes”, as users of the prototype have suggested that the structure in collaboration leads to focus on the learning materials, while delegating the task of structuring communications to the platform.