Computer supported collaborative learning : strengths and weaknesses

Collaborative learning is an instructional situation in which students interact while accomplishing an academic task. Collaborative learning as a theory on the whole is not a new idea (Gail/et, 1994). but the concept of computer supported collaborative learning is (Cerra/to and Belisle. 1995). But what actually is Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning (eSeL) and how effective can it really be? What are the strengths and weaknesses a/eSCL? How can learning. communication and interaction be encouraged? And what are the disadvantages if the interaction is not forthcoming? This paper explores these and other related issues.