Interaction Patterns of Mixed Sex Groups in Educational Computer Conferences. Part I-Empirical Findings

Abstract

This article considers the patterns of interaction in small, mixed sex groups of postgraduate students working in computer conference environments. Additionally, the views of participants concerning gender issues in these groups are examined. The research reported here differs from previous work in this area in several ways: the medium of communication is asynchronous computer conferences rather than face-to-face; the study is naturalistic rather than experimental; and it involves the study of groups that met over extended periods of time. The findings suggest that this new medium of group work offers new opportunities for female members of mixed sex groups, especially in terms of their ability to take turns, speak for similar lengths of time to those of male members, and direct the conversations. Generally, females appear to be at less of a disadvantage in this medium than in face-to-face meetings. It would seem that this medium offers the potential for greater equality of participation for females in mixed sex learning groups.