The Effects of Motivational Scaffolding on the Learning Process and Outcome in CSCL: Based on the Flow Theory

Abstract

This study intends to examine the effects of motivational scaffolding in Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL). This study was focused on the following two questions. Do motivational scaffolding lead to positive effects on the process in CSCL? Do motivational scaffolding lead to positive effects on the outcome in CSCL? In order to identify strategies for motivational scaffolding, we reviewed the “Flow Theory.” Based on literature reviews, principles and strategies were drawn for the motivational scaffolding. An experimental study was conducted in order to investigate the effects of motivational scaffolding on process and outcome. In this study, 87 undergraduate students were divided into two different groups (control group, experimental group). Motivational scaffolding was provided to experimental group. The process was analyzed by examining learners' satisfaction in process. The outcome was analyzed by examining learners’ satisfaction in product, group coherence, and quality of product. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant. From these results, we concluded that motivational scaffolding led to positive effects on process and outcome in CSCL environment.