Supporting communication processes in E-Learning networks

This paper describes an innovative approach to improve communication in E-Learning networks. Tutors and students are supported in their endeavors to carry out precise and meaningful communication. First the need for communication support is pinpointed from a technical as well as a social perspective. Then the main idea of separating content delivery and communication processes is presented. A procedure to create reference communication processes is suggested. Communication processes consist of reusable communication patterns, which are supported by sophisticated technical systems, that are described in an own paragraph. Finally, a continuous example of a communication process during a telecooperative case study is given.