What do We Learn from Collaborative Learning with Overseas? - The Role of Outside Supporters -

Abstract

This study is concerned with a learning activity of intercultural understanding conducted with the approach of collaborative learning with overseas and ICT. It was done among Japanese primary school pupils with the collaboration of the Palestinian pupils in Syria. Social/contextual support (e.g., from outside supporters) was included in the instructional design since collaborative learning with overseas does not go on as planned. When contradictions may occur during such a learning activity, carrying out intervention is important to achieve learning goals. This study aims to clarify when and how intervention should been done during the learning process. In this respect, activity system was applied as a conceptual tool to visualize the activity. As the effect of intervention, it was found among the Japanese pupils that they understood more about Syrian culture, they took more learning responsibilities and their way of shooting video considering intercultural differences was improved.