Strategies for the use of synchronous computer-mediated communication in education

Synchronous communication techniques allow participants to contribute from different locations at the same time. The tools available include chat, desktop videoconferencing (DVC) and groupware. Although these online techniques are probably the most similar to face-to-face teaching, it cannot be assumed that traditional teaching skills will necessarily transfer successfully or easily. This paper examines some of the potential strategies in the use of synchronous computer-mediated communication in education.