The difference in themean scores of

The difference in themean scores of the MOSART,with the face-to-face group scoring higher
than the online group, can be understood in light of the research on Computer Mediated
Communication (CMC). Challenges have been documented for asynchronous communication,
which provides an explanation for the significant difference. Four essential qualities that are
fundamental for CMC technologies have been identified: temporality, identity, modality, and
spatiality (Zhao, Alvarez-Torres, Smith, & Tan, 2004). Individuals are able to communicate
through discourse directly and immediately in synchronous, face-to-face learning. However,
communication is limited to a one-way channel with delayed feedback in asynchronous, online
learning. While some research supports the benefits of these features of online asynchronous
learning, the challenges are documented as well.