Romiszowski, A. J.; Mason, R. (1996). Computer-Mediated Communication. In Kozma, R. B. (Ed.), Handbook of Research for Educational Communications and Technology, Section II: Hard Technologies: Media-Related Research. pp. 438-456. IN: Association for Educational Communications and Technology.

This article presents the characteristics, origins, applications and trends of computer-mediated communication. Computer-mediated communication (CMC) can be defined as the interaction of people through computer networks, in which individuals are separated in time or place. The interaction between people characterizes this type of communication. Computer-assisted instruction and computer-based training differentiates from CMC because interaction between people not necessarily occurs.

Other characteristics of CMC include a more flexible interaction, multiway effective and efficient communication, and synchronous and asynchronous communication by means of computer conferencing, electronic mail, discussion lists and bulletin boards. It has applications on the work environment and on education and training. Some examples of its applications are collaborative work, that applies both to work and education, virtual classrooms, case study discussions, group projects, team presentations, peer counseling, etc. The applications of CMC are directly related to the technology available and the literacy on computers of individuals.

The most important fact that took my attention on this article was the characteristic of people interaction. I can relate it with my positive experience with online courses, especially with last semester course where we use a lot of CMC (EdTec 544 Instructional Design). On this course we interacted to make our group project and presentation and we share our work within the group making the experience more enrichment. Interaction between people improve creativity of individuals because while sharing knowledge or experiences you can come up with excellent ideas that otherwise will not emerge or will take more time.

Technology makes possible these applications and others to come. For most of us, time or space is not more a limitation to share knowledge and experiences.