In this study, descriptive statistics of usage data and a manifest content analysis of
transcripts from discussion groups, chat sessions, student questionnaires, student reflective
journals, and group project products were conducted. A multi-case study of six collaborative
groups was conducted. Qualitative research methodologies were utilized to gain a rich
understanding of the processes that occur in an online learning environment in which small group
projects were conducted. A concurrent analysis of these different data sources, also known as
triangulation of data sources (Patton, 1990) was conducted.