But because the evidence is not there does not mean that CMC is not effective or superior to traditional face to face teaching. By following the information found on this page you will enhance you chances for success when incorporating on-line teaching into your basic course in Public Speaking. Computer-mediated communication can create a unique environment for discussion that avoids many of the conversational limitations posed by face to face communication. Students and Instructors must meet in a classroom type setting that is relatively free of distractions in order to be effective. CMC is place independent.
Electronic discussion can occur in dorm rooms, computer labs, a living room, even the beach.
Due to the fact that cyberspace is accessible anywhere in the world, a class can be held across an ocean as easily as it can happen across a desk. The typical lecture style incorporated by many instructors of the basic course may seem collaborative but the style used to moderate discussion can often keep students from interacting with one another. On-line instruction on the other hand demands an interactive collaborative style that lends itself to the many to many conversational style. On-line communication takes these variables out of the equation leaving only the text of the message. The findings and suggestions presented here propose that supplementing face to face teaching with on-line instruction can provide students with a learning environment superior to that of the traditional classroom setting.