Synchronous Text Chat (EduTexting) as an Online Learning Tool

View Sample PDF

Author(s): Tina L. Heafner (University of North Carolina at Charlotte, USA)and Michelle Plaisance (Greensboro College, USA)
Copyright: 2015
Pages: 18
Source title: Exploring the Effectiveness of Online Education in K-12 Environments
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Tina L. Heafner (University of North Carolina at Charlotte, USA), Richard Hartshorne (University of Central Florida, USA)and Teresa Petty (University of North Carolina at Charlotte, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-4666-6383-1.ch006

Keywords: Education / Information Science Reference / K-12 Education / Learning Assessment and Measurement

Purchase

View Synchronous Text Chat (EduTexting) as an Online Learning Tool on the publisher's website for pricing and purchasing information.

Abstract

The increasing popularity and accessibility of affordable computer-mediated communication is rapidly changing the way in which we, as a society, interact and conduct business. This phenomenon is pervasive in all market sectors, including virtual K-12 education. This chapter examines collective and individual use of synchronous text chat to explore learner and instructor social and cognitive presence as well as their attitudes toward online learning. This mode of communication unilaterally enriches the observational learning experience for all participants. Overall, four meaningful social and cognitive functions of synchronous text chat in online learning contexts emerge: a) enhancing enjoyment, b) engagement and noticing, c) achieving community and providing interactive immediacy, and d) bridging of theory to practice. In the spirit of 21st century technological development, the authors coin this use of SMS (synchronous texting) in academic settings EduTexting. They argue for its application and appropriateness in K-12 online courses.

The IRMA Community

Research IRM

Synchronous Text Chat (EduTexting) as an Online Learning Tool

Purchase

Abstract

Related Content

IRMA Sponsors