How May E-Learning Groups Interact?

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Chia-Ping Yu - Tamkang University, Feng-yang Kuo - National Sun Yat-sen University

[edit] Abstract

How may e-learning groups interact? According to Wheelan (1994), for physical groups there are several types of interaction: dependency, flight, fight, counter-dependency, pairing, counter-pairing and work. Our study adopts the content analysis approach to investigate how virtual groups from a cyber-university interact over a period of twenty weeks. Our findings suggest that those e-learning groups flight, work, fight, and pair. Flights reinforce the cooperative relationships and then help building a stronger social relationship. Fights provide important diagnostic evidences to each member to assess and adjust his or her values and needs. Partners pair to demonstrate concerns and desire for satisfying others’ personal preferences and wishes. Work appears swiftly and facilitates members to continually cooperate.