The Benefits of Computer Conferences in Distance Education: An Assessment

The Benefits of Computer Conferences in Distance Education: An Assessment

Gbenga Michael Adeyeye

Issue: Vol.5 No. 7 September 2024 Article 6 pp.243-256
DOI : https://doi.org/10.38159/jelt.2024576 | Published online 18th September, 2024.
© 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article under the CCBY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).

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ABSTRACT

This study examined the positive influence of computer conferencing on distance education, particularly its capacity to foster a sense of community, collaboration, and interaction among learners. The study employed semi-structured interviews, focus groups, observations, and document analysis to investigate the experiences of students, instructors, and educational technologists of Delar college of education through a qualitative research design. The primary findings indicated that asynchronous communication provides convenience and flexibility, whereas synchronous communication enables immediate engagement and dynamic discussions. Additionally, computer conferencing facilitates the interchange of information at a rapid pace, reduces feelings of isolation, and facilitates the development of diverse learning environments by facilitating detailed discussions through sub-conferences. The research identified substantial advantages of computer conferencing, but it also emphasized potential constraints, including the necessity for effective facilitation and technological dependence. The research emphasizes the transformative potential of computer conferencing in improving the distance education experience.

Keywords: Educational Technology, Computer Conferencing, Interaction, Collaboration Distance Education, Online Learning, Qualitative Study

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AUTHOR(S)

Dr. Gbenga Michael Adeyeye has been involved in education for over 25 years. He is currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg, and with an area of expertise in Education Sociology. He holds a Doctor of Education (D.Ed.) in Sociology of Education, a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Adult and Industrial Education, and a Bachelor of Science in Education (B.Sc. Ed.) in Physics Education. He has numerous publications in prestigious journals and has attended both domestic and international conferences demonstrating my dedication to research.

TO CITE ARTICLE

Adeyeye, Gbenga Michael.”The Benefits of Computer Conferences in Distance Education: An Assessment.” Journal of Education and Learning Technology 5, no.7 (2024):243-256. https://doi.org/10.38159/jelt.2024576