INTERACTIVITY MEANS MANY THINGS TO MANY PEOPLE. This article is concerned with interpersonal interactivity--interactivity between two or more people--when the interaction is mediated by computers.

When people interact in face-to-face situations, they typically use all their sense modalities--sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste. They also exchange and build information in many ways--discussion, sharing documents, and drawing diagrams or sketches. When people interact with each other via computer, the senses involved and the exchange of information is often limited. Often people use only a single "modality," such as email text and attachments. At other times, they use multiple modalities, such as audio, video and collaborative white boards. Depending on the learning context, single or multiple modality interaction may be preferred.

As designers we can emulate face-to-face interpersonal interaction through a computer by providing a mix of modalities and formats for exchanging information.

Adding an audio or video component assists in conveying expressions, pitch, and tone. Providing a format for learners to exchange different types of documents--for instance, text, pictures, charts and other graphics--or work on documents together facilitates another level of interpersonal interactivity.

For deep learning or collaboration (not merely the exchange of information and ideas) to occur a multi-modal environment may be desired. But there are many times that text is sufficient, even preferable, for collaboration. Take a look at an example of a text-based interaction and a richer environment. 

A text-based (single modal) environment is usually best if:

• You wish to eliminate factors that may inhibit communication-for instance, biases related to gender, race or positions of authority.
• You want to stimulate the learners to "use their imagination" rather than rely on preconceived pictures or images.
• You do not have the specialized programs needed to sychronously build graphics, documents or images on-line.

A multi-modal environment may be preferable if:

• A demonstration is needed.
• Face-to-face interactions are required to learn a new skill (for instance, presentation skills.)
• Affective or interpersonal outcomes are important.
• Learners need to be able to manipulate objects together.

What type of environment do you think would be best for a brainstorming session?

Jill Donello ，Graduate Student: ，Department of Educational Technology San Diego State University