COSAR: collaborative writing of argumentative texts

In the COSAR project (COmputer Supported ARgumentative writing), we study electronic collaborative text production regarding the relation between characteristics of interaction on the one hand and learning and problem solving on the other. A groupware program has been developed to support collaborative writing. The system consists of a basic environment that can be extended with a combination of tools. The experiments with the basic environment have been completed. The first data of the evaluation forms are presented. The second phase of the project in which tools are added to the basic environment in different combinations is currently in progress. Students are generally enthusiastic about the system. Based on the observations we have made during the experiments, we will adapt the system in order to improve the usability and extend the range of subject areas