This book describes the evolution of the "Virtual Classroom" from an idea to a reality. A primary emphasis is on evaluation tools and procedures, which enables the reader to assess the extent to which the objectives of this new use of computers were attained. Extensive descriptions are provided of the software and of the collaborative learning processes that can be supported by software. Pitfalls and problems as well as advantages and successful uses of the technology are described. Finally, the book looks forward from these initial experiments to the possibilities for the use of this technology to expand educational opportunities in the 21st century. The "Virtual Classroom" extends beyond traditional computer-mediated communication in both software and evaluation. Several innovations were designed - specifically to foster group-oriented educational process. The software called the "Virtual Classroom" is a teaching and learning environment located within a computer-mediated communication system. Rather than being built of brick and boards, it consists of a set of group communication and work "spaces".
The student attends lectures, takes tests, receives feedback from professors, participates in discussions and undertakes team projects with fellow students, and more. One obvious advantage is that the student does not have to adhere to a rigid classroom schedule. A less obvious consequence is that the "Virtual Classroom" supports collaboration between the student and professor more readily. The "Virtual Classroom" is evaluated in a comprehensive conceptual framework to assess its effect as used in college level courses. Included are the evaluations of the Classroom in over 50 sections in three different institutions, over a period of five years. This volume is written for a wide variety of audiences including: teachers and students who are interested in the possibility of using this technology; scholars who are interested in the applications of social impacts of computer technology; and computer scientists interested in the design of systems for computer-supported co-operative work.