This was mainly due to our using normal email, but software exists that enhances discussion and is more organizationally user friendly. Responding to comments by others required more thought via CMC than face to face conversation, where appropriate emotions can be seen and not guessed at across telecommunication lines. It was evident that many students were visual in learning style. Through email their ability to process their classmates' comments was hindered. It is a challenge for some to be succinct at a keyboard.
Comments can turn into dissertations.
Offering the pros and cons helps us all think about what the future holds. As adult education enrollments rise, there will be increasing demand for distance education opportunities. Future learners will most likely be more comfortable with technology as a learning tool. We are all pulling for Vernita Bing who is battling cancer. She is back in classes and still plans to graduate in June.