Electronic sex talk: The uses and dynamics of computer-mediated discussiongroups in a team-taught human sexuality class

This paper is a case study of the effectiveness of a computer-mediated, dis cussion group requirement in meeting some of the challenges of the teaching -learning process in a human sexuality course. Data collected from students enrolled in a team-taught, human sexual behavior course provide informatio n both about the value and limitations of required computer-mediated discus sion groups, and some of the unique dynamics of electronic discourse. Overa ll, the data show that the addition of the electronic requirement to this c ourse was an effective pedagogical strategy that provided students with a s afe place to talk about sex, that is, to discuss, argue, rethink and reeval uate their attitudes and opinions, and to receive encouragement and support from one another.