Coupling Computer-Supported Cooperative Work and Hypermedia Technology for Distance Education Solutions

Searching for highly interactive and cooperative technologies in the field of distance learning has led to the development of a novel solution. It overcomes existing deficiencies with respect to context-sensitive and individualized interaction in shared learning spaces among learners and teachers. In this contribution we present the results and benefits of integrating computer-supported cooperative- work- and hypermedia technology at the methodological and conceptual layer, and, based on that, at the implementation level. The application of concepts, such as profiling, has led to several positive effects in practice. We also report on the problems when providing the proper technology support. However, first results from evaluation indicate an increase in usability with respect to the acceptance of electronic media for interactive learning support in distributed environments.