The Realization of Interaction in Cognitive Science Network Studies

This article deals with the research of the realization interaction in the Finnish Virtual University's network-based studies of cognitive science in the autumn 2001. In this research, we examine the independent study of cognitive science which occurs through a network and the face-to-face study that takes place in cooperation in a group and the study that occurs in WebCT groups. The research seeks answers to the kind of interaction that promotes network-based studies and what causes a lack of interaction. The data has been collected by questionnaires and observation. The results indicated that students considered interaction with the teacher and other students more binding than self-directed study. The expectations and biases of students did not always correspond to the objectives of studies and thus have prevented functional interaction in a network.