Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 18
Gender and Diversity in
Collaborative Virtual Teams
Anna Michailidou
University of Macedonia, Greece
Anastasios Economides
University of Macedonia, Greece
AbstrACt
Computer supported collaborative learning environments (CSCLEs) is one of the innovative technolo-
gies that support online education. Successful design and implementation of such environments demand
thorough analysis of many parameters. This chapter studies the impact of diversity in learner-learner
interactions in collaborative virtual teams through a social and cultural perspective. Social differences
include gender, race, class, or age. Cultural differences refer to matters like how an individual's cognition,
values, beliefs, and study behaviors are influenced by culture. Instructors must take into consideration the
factors that influence individuals' diversity, and invent new ways to implement successful collaboration.
This is crucial, especially regarding teams scattered on different countries or even continents. Social and
cultural differences influence an individual's performance in a learning environment. Such differences
must be adequately studied by both the educational organization and the instructors in such a way that
the learning procedure will become a positive experience for all the members involved.
introduCtion
information and communication technologies
(ICTs) generated a major modification in both
the pedagogical and educational methodologies
(Andrews & Schwarz, 2002). This refers to the
teacher-learner relationship and embraces matters
It is beyond any doubt that adequate education is
one of the key factors for successful embedment
of the synchronous man to a world that becomes
increasingly digitalized. The increased use of
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