A System for Analyzing Collaborative Problem Solving

Collaboration is widely regarded as bene cial for learning. Collaboration is the mutual engagement of participants in a coordinated e ort to solve a problem together (Roschelle & Teasley, 1991). It has been conclusively argued that a focus on the process of collaboration is necessary in order to understand the value of working together with peers for learning. In accordance with the approach of open distributed learning environments (ODLEs) rst proposed in (M uhlenbrock, Tewissen, & Hoppe, 1997), we have developed a framework system for computer-supported cooperative learning and working. This shared workspace system seems well suited for monitoring and assessing group interaction in co-located and distant scenarios. It provides adaptable mechanisms for automated microanalysis of processes of collaboration as well as for visualization and feedback.