Collaborative learning supported by ICT

the perception of students of chemical engineering in times of pandemic

Abstract

This paper is concerned with the process of teaching-learning ESP through ICT-supported collaborative activities. On the basis of a dataset obtained from 51 students, the study combines quantitative and qualitative methods in order to address three research questions: 1) what is the students' perception of their experience with collaborative learning supported by ICT? 2) what is the students’ perception of their own technical skills in times of pandemic, and which ICT tools do they use? 3) which problems arise in the course of the development of collaborative activities? Results reveal that the experience is rated positively by students, and they show a preference for collaborative learning. Students have a positive perception of their technology skills and express an interest in the use of videoconferencing. There are, nonetheless, difficulties which indicate that the instructor needs to provide guidance as to the distribution of roles and responsibilities among group members.