ERIC Number: EJ1072700
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2010-Jun
Pages: 10
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1940-5847
EISSN: N/A
Implementing Electronic Conferencing within a Distance-Based University: University of South Africa Case Study
Kritzinger, E.; Padayachee, K.; Tolmay, M.
Contemporary Issues in Education Research, v3 n6 p25-34 Jun 2010
The outcome of this paper is primarily to survey and analyse student interactions with electronic conferencing systems and to reflect on the impact of such a system on the students' learning within an open distance learning context. This pilot study is articulated within action research methodology to generate critical reflection on collaborative, online environments such as electronic conferencing systems for teaching and learning. This study aims to assess the benefits and feasibility of integrating such a system within the University of South Africa's (UNISA) current organisational structure. These results are intended to generate debate and further research within the university into possible evolution in practice within the institution that would address contemporary learning needs of students. As this was a feasibility study, a comparative study of the current tools available for electronic conferencing was warranted. The findings of this study may be used as a basis for further investigation on the challenges that might face the university if online learning were to be implemented. The success of the online conference is nevertheless significant within the context of the University of South Africa. It provides the opportunity to re-examine the current print-based delivery system, and to devise strategies and solutions to significantly increase the quality of learning within the organisation.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Distance Education, College Students, Computer Mediated Communication, Teleconferencing, Action Research, Electronic Learning, Synchronous Communication, Computer Software, Feedback (Response), Student Surveys
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: South Africa
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A