Educational Applications of CMCS: Solving Case Studies through Asynchronous Learning Networks

Case studies are an important component of many business curricula. However, in-class discussion of case studies suffers from temporal and geographical limitations. Computer-mediated communication systems (CMCS) can be used to overcome these constraints. An Asynchronous Learning Network, a CMCS supporting “anytime/anywhere” interaction and tailored for educational activities, may be used to expand and enrich case discussions. ALN-mediated discussions allow students and instructors from remote locations to participate in the discussion at their own convenient times. A field experiment was conducted to test the effectiveness of an ALN vs. traditional manual methods in individuals and groups discussing and solving a case study. Findings indicate that groups working in an asynchronous networked environment produced better and longer solutions to the case study, but were less satisfied with the interaction process.