Computer Mediated Communication

Topic: Computer Mediated Communication

Salute everyone.

Another entry means another topic. So, today we are going to cover about Computer Mediated Communication.

WHAT IS CMC

Any form of communication or interaction between two or more people through different computers and of course, with internet connection is called Computer Mediated Communication or CMC. In other words, any communication mediated through a computer is called CMC. Nowadays, we use a lot of CMC in our daily life such as, Facebook, WhatsApp and Skype.

CMC IN EDUCATION

It started in 1980s and 1990s with the introduction of Communicative CALL. It then became widespread with the use of Email and Forums. In the mid of the 90s, Internet Chat Rooms allowed direct communications and today, CMC has implemented for a long-distance teaching and learning which is a very beneficial for the human race. Today, there's a lot of e-tutoring through forums and video conferencing.

ASYNCHRONOUS CMC

Asynchronous CMC is a communication that is not synchronised which means messages are not expected to be replied immidiately. E-mails, and most social media are forms of asynchronous CMC.

SYNCHRONOUS CMC

If messages can be exchanged and replied immediately, it means the communication between the participants is synchronized and it is called synchronous CMC. Synchronous CMC allows for direct communication and most of internet chat rooms, messenger or audio/video conferencing are examples of synchronous CMC.

CMC & LONG DISTANCE LEARNING

CMC was applied for distance learning during the late 2000 where teacher and learner are no longer have to be at the same location to start their teaching and learning session. Since that, e-lectures has become popular and a lot of short courses are also available over the internet.

COLLABORATIVE LEARNING

It is a system where computers work as a helper for the learner and also an enhancer for peer interaction and group work. Google Doc, Google Drive and Blogs are the example of collaborative learning. Interestingly, collaborative learning is not just focusing on discussions but it also includes things like problem solving and collaborative production of works.

AUTHENTIC COMMUNICATION

CMC offers easy access for learners to communicate with other learners as well as native speakers. The best part is, context and material of communication is not simulated which means it is authentic.

Well, I hope now we all know what is CMC and if you notice nowadays there's a lot of social media can work as a CMC. So, why don't we use them as a tool for education but remember what we talk in our first topic? Too much of everything is not good.

So, if you think you want to use social media or maybe GMail as your part of your teaching process, feel free to do so but make sure you know when to stop.

See you next time.