JET_V4_N2_RP5 Pushpa Raghavan Fatimah Hashim Journal of Educational Technology 2230 - 7125 4 2 55 62 MSN Connection, Seedwiki, instant messaging service, online discussion of literary This study addresses the notion that online learning and web-based resources act as a useful support system that enhances free expression, critical thinking, student discussion and collaborative writing. The study focuses, specifically, on the combination of a web-based software application designed for collaborative learning, namely, the Seedwiki and the MSN, an instant messaging service or chat log, which enlivens online discussion of a literary text. Examination and analysis of webpage posting of four participants involved in the study, their chat log entries and interviews held with them revealed that network-assisted collaborative learning creates a social, communicative and interactive environment which facilitates the teaching and learning process. The sharing of personal opinions online and presentation of differing but substantiated arguments, allow students to become more independent, competent and autonomous learners in a virtual environment. July - September 2007 Copyright & copy; 2007 i-manager publications. All rights reserved. i-manager Publications http://www.imanagerpublications.com/Article.aspx?ArticleId=615