Communication and collaboration in digital learning environments in elementary schools: findings from a videographic research project

Abstract Drawing on recent insights from collaborative learning theories, this study explores collaborative learning among primary school students in digitally inclusive classrooms. Collaborative learning, which can be facilitated by digital media, is seen as important not only for supporting learning processes in general, but also for making diversity productive. With this potential in mind, a special learning environment has been developed and videotaped that addresses active media work among students and enables a heterogeneity-sensitive, integrative approach that is tailored to the different needs of the students. Under the guidance of specially trained prospective teachers, students were asked to work in groups to create a green screen film on the theme of “Christmas around the world”. The results, which are based on a mixed methods approach, show predominantly cooperative behaviour in the groups. The students are highly motivated, actively create media content, and support each other by exchanging organisational tips, informing each other, or sharing different points of view. The results are discussed, also in relation to the learning environment, and can be a starting point for further research.