Shared reflection by email: its role in new information technology education and training

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Clyde, Laurel A.^a | Klobas, Jane E.^b

Affiliations: [a] Faculty of Social Science, University of Iceland, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland. Tel.: +354 525 4522; Fax: +354 552 6806; E-mail: anne@rhi.hi.is | [b] The Graduate School of Management, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia. Tel.: +61 8938 03567; Fax: +61 8938 01072; E-mail: jklobas@ecel.uwa.edu.au

Abstract: Examines the role of shared reflection by electronic mail in the development and management of Internet training courses for adults. Effective shared teacher reflection contributes to effective international student activities. Through content analysis of email sent by a trainer during 3 years of development and delivery of introductory Internet courses, the authors: identify aspects of teaching about the Internet and new technologies to which reflection by email contributes; and assess the potential for computer-mediated communication between a teacher and an interlocutor in computer-supported education and training. Shared reflection through email provides opportunity and incentive to reflect on course development and management. It assists with course development and with management of stress associated with development and presentation of new and innovative courses. It is a simple but valuable tool for timely recording of reflections. It provides ready access to an interested colleague who can provide timely feedback, regardless of geographical proximity.

DOI: 10.3233/EFI-2000-18402

Journal: Education for Information, vol. 18, no. 4, pp. 273-287, 2000