Enhancing engagement and collaborative learning skills in multi-touch software for UML diagramming

Abstract

The use of Multi-touch interfaces for collaborative learning has received significant attention. Their ability to synchronously accommodate multiple users is an advantage in co-located collaborative design tasks. This paper explores the potential of Multi-touch interfaces in collaborative Unified Modeling Language (UML) diagramming by comparing them to a PC-based tool and evaluating the collaborative learning skills and level of physical interaction in both conditions. The results indicate that even though participants conversed more in the PC-based condition, the use of the Multi-touch table increased the level of physical interaction and encouraged “creative conflict” skills amongst the team members.