Development and evaluation of a distance learning system based on CSCW

This paper described a distance learning system, which allows Internet users to conduct a lesson in real-time from any kinds- attached computers. Participants can jointly view and edit relevant multimedia information distributed through Internet. Teachers and students can also simultaneously communicate by voice and text to discuss the problems. Teacher can broadcast streaming PowerPoint presentation in real time to network users. In addition to sliders, presenters can broadcast video and audio simultaneously to deliver a live multimedia show online, and store their presentations for on-demand playback. Teachers distributed in different places can also use cooperative editing tool to edit and encode existing digital content. We discussed some important design principles of the system. Then, the system configuration and the results of evaluation are also presented. The system has proved to be applicable to the distance learning based on CSCW (Computer Support Cooperative Work) in Internet.