Student Traits and the Use of Computer-Mediated Communication Tools: What Matters and Why?

Introduction This paper describes a year-long study of computer-mediated communication (CMC) tool use by high school students. The purpose of this study is to explore a range of variables related to characteristics of students in order to form a better understanding of how to construct learning environments where CMC tool use is an integral part of daily activity. Student characteristics are explored with respect to gender, academic self-concept, parental education, skill and experience with technology, communication apprehension, and social influence. The results of this research have implications for both the design of classroom activities and the design of the CMC tools themselves. This study is intended to be a “stake in the ground” towards a better understanding of the overall design of communicationand technology-rich classrooms.