Getting together out-of-class: Using technologies for informal interaction and learning

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a study of the way in which university students use technologies for out-of-class interactions. The study investigated the usefulness and usage frequency of technologies such as mobile phones, social networking and email for informal interaction, compared to face-to-face interactions occurring in physical settings. The results seem to confirm that while informal, spontaneous interactions between students were most common face-to-face, some technologies performed a critical supportive role for 'just-in-time' information sharing and coordinating face-to-face meetings. However, technology usage was limited due to social barriers that were sometimes exacerbated..