An analysis of communication within immersive learning courses involving software development at Ball State University : an honors thesis (HONRS 499)

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to address fundamental issues in communication within interdisciplinary efforts. Prior studies in the field are examined first, addressing recommended causes and respective solutions to this problem. The paper then describes the methods and procedures for gathering the data for the study. The results and information which can be inferred from the result set are next discussed. Finally, the discussion section offers reaction to the results, recommended approaches for further cooperative efforts, and avenues for further research in the field.Data for this survey was collected through a twenty-six-question online survey of thirty participants who participated in immersive learning courses at Ball State University. The survey questions addressed participant background, prior teamwork experience, problems encountered, coping with problems, communication methods, participant involvement in a project, and a section asking participants to summarize their experiences.The background research in this field is varied. Several sources examining the essential communication issues inherent in interdisciplinary efforts are practitioners in the field, who look to improve their efforts and business practices. Others are observers noting a common thread among many projects. Though these various authors do not conclusively point to one root as the cause of communication difficulties, most concede that the primary sources are: lack of clear communication paths, lack of unified vision of product, lack of chain of command within the team, and most importantly, a lack of respect among team members. Prior research recommended addressing said issues to help improve future cooperative efforts.The results of this study reflected prior research as shown by participants' responses, noting several of the recommendations discussed in previous studies as useful: utilizing in-person communication, keeping team members involved, encouraging interaction, and fostering mutual respect and appreciation among participants.The discussion section examines the results of this study, noting correlations to prior research. It also offers recommendations for solving the problems at hand based on survey data, personal experience, and support from authors in the field. Recommendations are made for further research of participation in collaborative efforts, observation of collaborative efforts, data collection from professors, and observation of immersive learning experiences.It is the author's hope that this paper will serve as a means to enable future students and instructors to become involved in collaborative efforts, to better prepare them for their efforts, and to better inform those seeking to investigate the field of collaborative studies. It is with such efforts that universities can continue to grow as institutions and help prepare their students for real-world interactive experiences.