The importance and forms of cooperation in the online environment

In digital education, collaboration can be achieved through synchronous and asynchronous forms of interaction. Synchronous collaboration involves the simultaneous participation of all group members in real time, most often using videoconferencing tools (e.g. BigBlueButton, Zoom, Microsoft Teams ) or with the help of a virtual classroom with the possibility of creating smaller groups for teamwork. The advantage of synchronous activities is reflected in the possibility of direct communication, faster decision-making and stronger social connections among students. However, such activities also require greater organizational coordination, time coordination and appropriate technical conditions.

On the other hand, asynchronous collaboration offers time flexibility and the possibility of a more reflective approach to tasks. Tools such as forums, shared documents, e-portfolios and collaboration platforms (e.g. Miro, Padlet) are used here. Such an approach allows for deeper analysis of content, systematic monitoring of individual contributions and extended duration of intellectual interaction. However, there may be a decrease in the intensity of interaction and a delay in responses, which can affect the pace of work and motivation of students. Therefore, it is most optimal to use an approach that combines synchronous and asynchronous methods.

Collaborative work, whether it takes place in a physical or virtual space, has numerous didactic and pedagogical advantages, but also disadvantages. In a physical space or classroom, problems most often relate to unequal distribution of tasks, dominance of individual group members, or inadequate coordination. In an online environment, additional difficulties include limitations in nonverbal communication, technical barriers, delayed reactions in asynchronous activities, and the possibility of a lack of active participation. The teacher must therefore pay special attention to the design of activities, the proper distribution of roles, and mechanisms for continuous monitoring of the contributions of each group member.