Abstract:Online learners utilise sophisticated electronic communication systems and methods to engage in current distance learning environments. This paper has outlined literature discussing various CMC styles as they exist within current CMC tools, particularly in gender-related communication style differences indicated that the current 'lean' text-based electronic communication systems tend to promote a more direct 'report' communication style. Because a learner's CMC style may influence or impact the recipient's view of the message and/or the sender, and with so many online learners now utilising computer mediated communication for personal and group communication, it would seem prudent for learners to be aware of, monitor, and perhaps strategically utilise their communication styles that benefit them in being more effective in their CMC. It is concluded that learners should be familiar with the communication styles that best convey their message with the current electronic communication tools to their intended audience for their intended purpose.Keywords: online learning; gender issues; computer-mediated communication; CMC; media richness theory; self-regulation learning; linguistic; online interaction.Reference to this paper should be made as follows: Blocher, J.M. and Tu, C-H. (2007) Chih-Hsiung Tu, PhD is an Assistant Professor at Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ and an educational/instructional technology consultant with extensive experience in distance education, e-learning, technology training in teacher education, online learning community, learning organisation, and knowledge management. His research interests are distance education, socio-cognitive learning, socio-cultural learning, online learning community, learning organisation, and knowledge management. He has edited one book,
Bridging the computer mediated communication gap
139and published one book, published many papers, authored many book chapters, submitted numerous book proposals, presented at national and international conferences, and other scholarly activities.